How do you do a Cheshbon Hanefesh (Accounting of your Soul)?

What is the definition of Cheshbon HaNefesh?

This accounting is a sincere introspection of your religious and worldly concerns.

Look at everything you have done in this world.

Then ask: “Am I serving HaShem with my actions?”

Your Cheshbon HaNefesh provides you with an understanding of what you have accomplished.

Do this alone, while contemplating all the goodness HaShem gives you.

Many biblical verses confirm the importance of (making) a Cheshbon HaNefesh.

Moshe Rabbeinu (Moses our teacher) commands us regarding this type of accounting:

“Understand this today and place it on your heart.
HaShem is your G-d.
There is nothing else.”
(Deuteronomy 4: 39).

It is by deeply thinking into things that you place these concepts in your heart.

Dovid HaMelech (King David), peace unto him says:

“Make yourself aware of Him in every way
and you will discover HaShem is good!”
(Psalm 34: 9).

and

“Don’t be like a horse or a mule with no understanding.” 
(Psalm 32: 9)

This means develop your relationship with HaShem.

On one who does not contemplate his Master (G-d):

“He does not make calculations about himself.

He does not take anything to heart.
He has no knowledge.

He has no understanding.
He is not thinking.” (Isaiah 44: 19)

And

“Remember the days of old.
Think of Past generations
(how HaShem saved them).”
Deuteronomy 32: 7

“I turn my thoughts away and see HaShem’s goodness.” (Job 36: 3)

A careful reading of these biblical quotations all imply the importance of doing a Cheshbon HaNefesh.

Your Cheshbon HaNefesh provides you a wonderful tool to deal with life’s encounters!

Do you take time to sit alone and consider the path you are on in your relationship with HaShem (G-d)?

What are you thinking,
We would like to know?

Please share this with anyone
who might enjoy or benefit from it.

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Based on a lecture by Rabbi Moshe Dovid Cohen and Shaar Cheshbon HaNefesh of Chovos HaLelovos