Whomsoever remembers death frequently

'Umar bin ‘Abdul ‘Azeez wrote to al-Imām al-Awzā‘i [may Allāh bestow mercy upon them both]:

“Following on from that¹, whomsoever remembers death frequently will be pleased with the little things in this world. Whomsoever knows that his words are counted from his deeds, he will not speak, except if it is something which benefits him. Peace be with you!”

Siyar A’lām an-Nubalā’a, 5/133 | Al-Imām adh-Dhahabi [may Allāh have mercy on him]

Translation: Authentic Quotes

¹. This phrase ‘Following on from that’ [or ‘To proceed’ as some have translated] is from the different styles of writing. It is said that this phrase is from ‘Faslul Khitāb’ that was given to Dawūd, peace be upon him.

وَءَاتَيۡنَـٰهُ ٱلۡحِكۡمَةَ وَفَصۡلَ ٱلۡخِطَابِ

“…and We [Allāh] gave him [Dawūd] wisdom and Faslal Khitāb [discernment in speech].” 

Surah Sa‘d, al-Āyah 20