DEUT141 Having discussed in the preceding gate the essentials of repentance and its conditions, and since self-accounting is one of these conditions, I think it proper to follow with an explanation of different kinds of self-accounting, for through such introspection one is moved to that which will further one’s well-being in both worlds, as David, peace be upon him, said: “I consider my ways, and I turn my feet to Your testimonies” (Tehillim 119: 59 ).... Self-accounting is earnest deliberation on one's religious and secular concerns, in the privacy of one's thoughts, to discover what he has accomplished--and has yet to accomplish--of his obligations. The prophet charged us to do so when he said, “Understand it today and reflect on it in your heart: Hashem is the God... (Devarim 4:39). David, peace be upon him, said: “Enhance your awareness and discover that God is good” (Tehillim 34:9); “Know the God of your father and serve Him” (Divrei Ha-Yamim I, 28:9); “Don't be like a horse or a mule, without understanding” (Tehillim 32:9). Of one who fails to examine his concerns and does not critique himself in them, it was said: “No one reflects on it in his heart, no one has knowledge or understanding” (Yeshayahu 44:19); “They did not remember His power” (Tehillim 78:42). It says further: “Remember the days of old, reflect on the years of generations past...” (Devarim 32:7ff.); Remembering days of old, [I meditate on all that You did]” (Tehillim 143:5); “I turn my thoughts far away [and ascribe righteousness to my Maker]” (Iyov 36:3).