In Islam, death is not seen as the end of existence but rather as a transition from the physical world to the spiritual realm. This belief shapes the way Muslims live their lives, emphasising the importance of righteousness, preparation for the afterlife, and the transient nature of worldly life.
The moment of death in Islam is described as the time when the soul is taken by the Angel of Death, known as Azrael. The Quran describes this moment: “He reigns supreme over all of His creation, and sends recording-angels, watching over you. When death comes to any of you, Our angels take their soul, never neglecting this duty” (Quran 6:61). For those who have lived righteously, this moment is described as peaceful: “Those whose lives the angels take in a state of purity, saying (to them), ‘Peace be on you; enter Paradise, because of (the good) which you did (in the world)’” (Quran 16:32).
Islamic doctrine holds that human existence continues after the death of the human body in the form of spiritual and physical resurrection. The Quran and Hadith provide vivid descriptions of the afterlife, including the concepts of Heaven (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam). The Quran states, “And those who believe and do righteous deeds, We will admit them to gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide forever” (Quran 4:57). Conversely, those who have led a life of sin and disbelief are warned of the torments of Hell.
In Islam, the best preparation for death is to live a righteous life. This includes performing good deeds, seeking forgiveness for sins, and maintaining a strong faith in Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Live in this world as if you are a stranger or a traveller passing through” (Sahih al-Bukhari). This hadith captures the reality of this world – it is like an airport terminal or a bus station. Therefore, one should not be overly obsessed with excessive materialism and instead focus on actions that have lasting spiritual value.
Islamic death rituals are designed to honor the deceased and provide comfort to the living. These rituals include:
After death, the soul enters a state known as Barzakh, which is an intermediate stage between this world and the Hereafter. The Quran mentions Barzakh in Surah Al-Mu’minun: “Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘My Lord, send me back that I might do righteousness in that which I left behind.’ No! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected” (Quran 23:99-100). During this period, the soul awaits the Day of Judgment.
The Day of Judgment, or Yawm al-Qiyamah, is a fundamental belief in Islam. On this day, all individuals will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds. The Quran describes this day as one of great significance: “The Day when they will come out of the graves quickly as if they were racing to a goal” (Quran 70:43). The righteous will be rewarded with eternal bliss in Paradise, while the wicked will face punishment in Hell.
In Islam, death is not an end but a transition to a new phase of existence. It serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of life and the importance of living righteously. By understanding and preparing for death, Muslims can lead lives that are meaningful and aligned with their faith. The rituals and beliefs surrounding death in Islam provide comfort and guidance, helping believers navigate the inevitable journey from this world to the next.