According to a hadith, Allah Most High overlooks thoughts as long as they are not given practical expression. There are five stages in thought: whim (hajis), notion (khatir), deliberation (hadith al-nafs), inclination (hamm), and firm decision ('azm).

Hajis - A whim (hajis) is a thought that in the beginning produces no reaction in the lower self. If one is fortunate to eliminate the thought at this stage, the other four stages will not become relevant.

Khatir - If one fails to eliminate the whim and it establishes its presence in the lower self without the latter [i.e., the lower self] plotting to give it practical expression, it [the whim] enters the notion (khatir) stage.

Hadith al-Nafs - At this stage, the lower self considers acting or not acting upon that which has become established in the lower self. It ruminates on the plot without giving preference to any course of action. The thought is now known as deliberation. (Hadith al-Nafs).

The ruling (hukm) on these three stages is no punishment if the thought is evil and no reward if the thought is good. Punishment and reward do not apply to the stages of whim, notion, and deliberation.

Hamm - When the lower self, after having reflected about action or inaction regarding the deeds it has planned, inclines partially toward one side (i.e., any side, whether to commit or refrain from the act), the thought is known as an inclination (hamm). The thought at this stage merits reward if virtuous and punishment if evil.

'Azm - When the thought finally asserts itself and a decision is made to give it practical expression, it is known as a firm decision ('azm). Reward and punishment apply to this stage as well.

[The Path To Perfection]