Abdullah ibn Abu Qatada related from Abu Qatada that he heard him relate from the Messenger of Allah (SAW), that He got up among them and mentioned to them that jihad in the cause of Allah, and belief in Allah, were the best deeds. And a man got up and said: Oh Messenger of Allah, do you reckon if I am killed in the cause of Allah, my sins will be atoned for? The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said to him: Yes; if you are killed in the cause of Allah having been steadfast, intent on the reward, advancing and not retreating. Then the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: What was it that you asked? The man said: Do you reckon that if I am killed in the cause of Allah, will my sins be atoned for? And the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: Yes; being steadfast and intent on the reward, advancing and not retreating - except for debt – indeed Jibril (peace be upon him) told me that.