What Is Death? A Friend or a Foe? -

Allah says in the Quran in Chapter 67 Verses 1 & 2 :

(67:1) Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion of the Universe, and Who has power over everything; (67:2) Who created death and life that He might test you as to which of you is better in deed.

Several key points to be noted here:

Sovereignty of Allah: Allah alone grants life and causes death; no other being has this power.
Purpose of Life and Death: Human existence is not without purpose; life is a test, and death signifies the end of this trial period.
Opportunity for Action: During our lives, we have the chance to perform good or evil deeds, revealing our true character.
Divine Judgment: Allah is the ultimate judge of our actions, and only His criteria for good and evil hold weight.

These two verses from Surah Al-Mulk emphasize several profound truths about Allah’s nature and the purpose of human existence. Firstly, Allah is the sovereign ruler of the entire universe, possessing absolute power over all things. The phrase “in Whose Hand is the dominion” signifies that all authority and control rest solely with Him, without any partners or equals.

Also Read: Turn To Him Before You Return To Him

One of the key purposes of creation, as highlighted in these verses, is to test humanity. Allah created life and death to test who among us performs the best deeds. This life serves as a period of testing, where individuals are given the opportunity to demonstrate their character and actions, whether good or evil. Death marks the end of this testing period, and the results of our actions will be judged by Allah alone. It is He who determines what constitutes good and evil, not human standards.

Additionally, the verses remind us that life and death are not random or purposeless events; they are part of Allah’s divine plan. The creation of life and death, and the test they represent, is a deliberate act by Allah to see how we conduct ourselves.

Finally, while Allah possesses the power to punish, He is also Merciful and Forgiving. He offers forgiveness to those who sincerely repent and strive to improve their deeds. This dual aspect of Allah’s nature—His might and His mercy—provides both a warning and a hope: a warning for those who persist in wrongdoing, and hope for those who seek forgiveness and strive for righteousness.

The Fragility of Life

Life is a transient journey, and our time on this earth is fleeting. The Quran eloquently reminds us of this fundamental truth in the verse:

“Everyone is bound to taste death and you shall receive your full reward on the Day of Resurrection. Then, whoever is spared the Fire and is admitted to Paradise has indeed been successful. The life of this world is merely an illusory enjoyment.” (Quran 3:185).

What are the messages for mankind in this verse? Did you get them?

This powerful verse highlights the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures. No matter how much we achieve, accumulate, or enjoy in this life, it is all temporary. The transient nature of our existence should prompt us to reflect on our ultimate purpose and destination. Our worldly pursuits, though important and sometimes necessary for our survival and comfort, should not blind us to the ultimate reality — our return to Allah.

Also Read: The Islamic Perspective on Parent-Child Relationships

The Quran urges us to maintain a balanced perspective, reminding us that the pleasures and achievements of this world are ephemeral and often deceptive. This world is described as “merely an illusory enjoyment,” a phrase that encapsulates the fleeting and sometimes misleading nature of worldly delights.

Allah further emphasizes this in another verse:

“The life of this world is nothing but a delusion.” (Quran 57:20).

Meaning that worldly gains and successes can often be misleading, causing us to lose sight of what is truly important. The Quran encourages us to seek contentment and fulfillment in our relationship with Allah and our preparation for the afterlife.

The Transience of Worldly Life

The Quran frequently emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly life. Allah says:

“Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment and boasting to one another and competition in increase of wealth and children. Like the example of a rain whose [resulting] plant growth pleases the tillers; then it dries and you see it turned yellow; then it becomes [scattered] debris. And in the Hereafter is severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and approval. And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion.” (Quran 57:20).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also highlighted the temporary nature of life and the importance of focusing on the hereafter. He said:

“Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveler along a path.” (Sahih Bukhari).

This hadith reminds us to treat our time in this world as a temporary journey, emphasizing that our true home lies beyond this earthly existence. It encourages us to remain detached from the materialism of this world and to focus on our ultimate return to Allah.

The Inevitable Return to Allah

Another verse from the Quran underscores the certainty of our return to Allah:

“Wherever you may be, death will overtake you, even if you are in fortresses built up strong and high” (Quran 4:78).

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that death is inevitable, regardless of our circumstances or efforts to avoid it. It emphasizes that our worldly security is ultimately fragile and that our focus should be on preparing for our return to Allah.

The Quran also encourages us to reflect on the reality of death and the hereafter:

“Say, ‘Indeed, the death from which you flee – indeed, it will meet you. Then you will be returned to the Knower of the unseen and the witnessed, and He will inform you about what you used to do.'” (Quran 62:8).

This emphasizes the inevitability of death and the inescapable nature of accountability. It reminds us that regardless of how much we try to avoid it, death is a certainty that will eventually meet every soul. Whether we believe it or not our actions and intentions are continuously recorded and will be presented on the Day of Judgment and we’ll have to face the consequences.

The meticulous recording of deeds by angels is also described in the Quran:

“Or do they think We hear not their secrets and their private conversations? Yes, [We do], and Our messengers are with them recording.” (Quran 43:80)

In Surah Al-Kahf, Allah says:

“And the record [of deeds] will be placed [open], and you will see the criminals fearful of that within it, and they will say, ‘Oh, woe to us! What is this book that leaves nothing small or great except that it has enumerated it?’ And they will find what they did present [before them]. And your Lord does injustice to no one.” (Quran 18:49)

Meaning, that every action, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is recorded, and individuals will be shown a comprehensive account of their deeds.

That is why the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often spoke about the reality of death, urging believers to remember it frequently. He said:

“Remember often the destroyer of pleasures.” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

Why? Because it can help us keep our priorities in check and remind us of the transient nature of worldly pleasures.

Lessons from the Lives of the Prophets

The lives of the prophets provide us with profound lessons on the fragility of life and the importance of preparing for the hereafter. Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) is a prime example. Despite his closeness with Allah and being honored with the title Khalilullah (Friend of Allah), he remained deeply aware of the transient nature of life. He prayed:

“And do not disgrace me on the Day they are [all] resurrected – The Day when neither wealth nor children will avail, But only one who comes to Allah with a sound heart.” (Quran 26:87-89).

Worldly possessions and relationships will not benefit us in the hereafter. What truly matters is the state of our hearts and our relationship with Allah.

Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) also exemplifies this understanding. After enduring many trials and eventually rising to a position of great power, he remained humble and focused on the hereafter. He prayed:

“My Lord, You have given me [something] of sovereignty and taught me of the interpretation of dreams. Creator of the heavens and earth, You are my protector in this world and in the Hereafter. Cause me to die a Muslim and join me with the righteous.” (Quran 12:101).

Yusuf’s prayer reflects his awareness that true success lies in being a faithful servant of Allah and being among the righteous in the hereafter.

Also Read: Do We Really Respect Our Prophet(PBUH)?

The Equalizing Nature of Death

The inevitability of death serves as a powerful equalizer. Regardless of our social status, wealth, or power, we are all subject to the same end. This realization can foster humility, compassion, and a greater sense of solidarity among people. It reminds us that, ultimately, we are all part of the same human family, sharing a common destiny.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this equality in his Farewell Sermon:

“O people, your Lord is one and your father (Adam) is one. An Arab is not better than a non-Arab, and a non-Arab is not better than an Arab; a white person is not better than a black person, nor is a black person better than a white person, except by piety.” (Musnad Ahmad).

That is, all human beings are equal in the sight of Allah, and what distinguishes us is our piety and righteousness. Death serves as a reminder of this equality, as it spares no one, regardless of their earthly status.

The Importance of Preparation for the Hereafter

Given the certainty of death, the Quran and the Hadith place significant emphasis on preparing for the hereafter. Allah says:

“O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow – and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.” (Quran 59:18).

Fear Allah

The verse begins with an exhortation to fear Allah. This “fear” (taqwa) is not just about being afraid but encompasses a sense of reverence, respect, and mindfulness of Allah’s presence and His commands. It encourages believers to lead a life of piety and righteousness, being constantly aware of Allah’s watchfulness over all actions.

Look to What You Have Put Forth for Tomorrow

“Let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow” urges believers to reflect on their actions and prepare for the Day of Judgment. This “tomorrow” is a metaphor for the hereafter, emphasizing the need for self-accountability and foresight. Believers are encouraged to regularly assess their deeds, ensuring they are contributing positively to their afterlife

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also advised believers to make the most of their time and opportunities. He said:

“Take advantage of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your illness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your busyness, and your life before your death.” (Mustadrak Al-Hakim).

This hadith emphasizes the importance of being proactive and mindful of the blessings and opportunities we have making the most of them before they are lost. It encourages us to use these resources wisely for personal growth, spiritual development, and the betterment of society. The message is to live a balanced and purposeful life, making the most of every moment and resource, and to be prepared for the afterlife.

Finding Comfort and Solace in the Reminder of Death

While the thought of death can be unsettling, it also offers comfort and solace, particularly in times of hardship and loss. When we face the inevitable trials and tribulations of life, the Quran’s teachings provide a sense of hope and resilience. Knowing that this life is temporary and that our true reward lies in the hereafter can help us endure difficulties with patience and faith.

Allah says:

“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient, who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’ Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy. And it is those who are the [rightly] guided.” (Quran 2:155-157).

These verses highlight the importance of patience and faith in the face of adversity. They remind us that trials are a part of life and that our response to them determines our true success. Recognizing that we belong to Allah and will return to Him provides a sense of peace and purpose.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also offered guidance on finding solace in difficult times. He said:

“No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that.” (Sahih Bukhari).

This hadith reassures us that our sufferings are not in vain and that they can serve as a means of spiritual purification and growth. It encourages us to bear hardships with patience and trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy.

The Transformative Power of Contemplating Death

Regularly contemplating death can have a transformative effect on our lives. It can help us develop a greater sense of urgency and purpose, prompting us to focus on what truly matters. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Remember often the destroyer of pleasures.” (Sunan Ibn Majah).

By reflecting on the inevitability of death, we are reminded to prioritize our spiritual well-being and to strive for righteousness. It can motivate us to seek forgiveness for our sins, to mend our relationships, and to engage in acts of kindness and charity.

The Quran also encourages us to seek forgiveness and repentance. Allah says:

“And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by transgression], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who can forgive sins except Allah? – and [who] do not persist in what they have done while they know.” (Quran 3:135).

This verse highlights the importance of self-reflection and repentance, reminding us that it is never too late to turn back to Allah and seek His forgiveness.

Practical Steps for Preparing for the Hereafter

Preparing for the Hereafter is a fundamental aspect of Islamic teachings, emphasized repeatedly in the Quran and Hadith. It involves living a life that aligns with Islamic principles and values, focusing on spiritual growth, good deeds, and fulfilling one’s duties to Allah and fellow human beings. Here are some practical steps for preparing for the Hereafter based on the Quran and Hadith:

What To Do?

1. Establishing Salah (Prayer)

Salah is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a fundamental act of worship. It connects Muslims with Allah and serves as a constant reminder of their faith.

Quranic Guidance: “And establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience].” (Quran 2:43)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound.” (Sunan Abi Dawood)

2. Giving Zakat (Charity)

Zakat is another pillar of Islam, requiring Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. It purifies wealth and helps reduce inequality.

Quranic Guidance: “And establish prayer and give zakah, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves—you will find it with Allah.” (Quran 2:110)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadhan.” (Tirmidhi)

3. Acquiring Taqwa (Piety)

Taqwa is the consciousness of Allah, guiding Muslims to act righteously and avoid sin.

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].” (Quran 3:102)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Fear Allah wherever you are, and follow up a bad deed with a good one and it will wipe it out, and behave well towards people.” (Tirmidhi)

4. Helping the Needy

Assisting those in need, whether financially, emotionally, or physically, is a key aspect of Islamic ethics.

Quranic Guidance: “And those within whose wealth is a known right, for the petitioner and the deprived.” (Quran 70:24-25)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “He who relieves the hardship of a believer in this world, Allah will relieve his hardship on the Day of Judgment.” (Sahih Muslim)

5. Establishing Justice

Justice is a core value in Islam, and Muslims are encouraged to be just in all aspects of life.

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives.” (Quran 4:135)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The just will be seated upon pulpits of light… those who practiced justice in their decisions and with their families and in all that they did.” (Sahih Muslim)

6. Seeking Knowledge

Acquiring knowledge is highly emphasized in Islam, as it leads to better understanding and practice of the faith.

Also Read: Why Should You Believe In All The Prophets?

Quranic Guidance: “Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ Only they will remember [who are] people of understanding.” (Quran 39:9)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

7. Engaging in Good Deeds

Good deeds include acts of kindness, charity, and service to others. These actions are a means of earning Allah’s pleasure and preparing for the afterlife.

Quranic Guidance: “So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.” (Quran 99:7-8)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The deeds most loved by Allah are those done regularly, even if they are small.” (Sahih Bukhari)

8. Self-Accountability

Regularly assessing one’s actions and intentions helps in staying focused on spiritual goals and improving one’s character.

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow – and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.” (Quran 59:18)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The wise person is the one who calls himself to account and performs deeds that will benefit him after death.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi)

9. Strengthening Family and Community Ties

Maintaining good relationships with family and community members is emphasized in Islam, as it fosters a supportive and compassionate society.

Quranic Guidance: “And worship Allah and associate nothing with Him, and to parents do good, and to relatives, orphans, the needy, the near neighbor, the neighbor farther away, the companion at your side, the traveler…” (Quran 4:36)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “He who severs the ties of kinship will not enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)

10. Living with Integrity and Honesty

Upholding truthfulness and integrity in all aspects of life is essential for earning trust and respect in this life and rewards in the hereafter.

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true.” (Quran 9:119)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise.” (Sahih Bukhari)

What Not To Do?

Preparing for the Hereafter involves not only engaging in positive actions (Do’s) but also avoiding negative behaviors (Don’ts). Islam provides clear guidance on what to refrain from, to ensure that one lives a righteous and moral life. Here are some of the Don’ts in the light of Quran and Hadith:

1. Avoiding Shirk (Associating Partners with Allah)

Shirk, or associating partners with Allah, is considered the gravest sin in Islam. It undermines the fundamental concept of monotheism.

Quranic Guidance: “Indeed, Allah does not forgive Shirk (association with Him), but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills.” (Quran 4:48)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever dies while having associated nothing with Allah will enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)

2. Abstaining from Lying and Dishonesty

Honesty is highly valued in Islam, and lying or deceit is strongly discouraged.

Quranic Guidance: “And do not mix the truth with falsehood or conceal the truth while you know [it].” (Quran 2:42)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man keeps on telling the truth until he becomes a truthful person. Falsehood leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Hellfire.” (Sahih Bukhari)

3. Refraining from Backbiting and Gossip

Backbiting and gossip are harmful actions that can damage relationships and are strictly prohibited.

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it.” (Quran 49:12)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do you know what backbiting is? It is saying something about your brother that he would dislike.” (Sahih Muslim)

4. Avoiding Injustice and Oppression

Islam emphasizes justice and fairness, condemning any form of oppression or injustice.

Quranic Guidance: “And do not deprive people of their due and do not commit abuse on earth, spreading corruption.” (Quran 11:85)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Beware of injustice, for injustice will be darkness on the Day of Resurrection.” (Sahih Muslim)

5. Refraining from Engaging in Haram (Prohibited) Activities

Certain actions and substances are explicitly prohibited in Islam, including alcohol, gambling, and usury (riba).

Quranic Guidance: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Quran 5:90)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Every intoxicant is khamr (alcohol), and every intoxicant is haram.” (Sahih Muslim)

6. Avoiding Envy and Malice

Islam teaches believers to maintain purity of heart and avoid feelings of envy and malice towards others.

Quranic Guidance: “And do not wish for that by which Allah has made some of you exceed others.” (Quran 4:32)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Do not envy one another; do not hate one another; do not turn away from one another, and be servants of Allah, brothers.” (Sahih Muslim)

7. Refraining from Neglecting Religious Obligations

Neglecting obligatory acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and zakat, is considered a serious shortcoming.

Quranic Guidance: “So woe to those who pray, [But] who are heedless of their prayer.” (Quran 107:4-5)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The covenant that distinguishes between us and them is prayer; whoever neglects it has disbelieved.” (Sunan At-Tirmidhi)

8. Avoiding Cruelty and Harshness

Islam teaches kindness and mercy towards all creatures, and cruelty is condemned.

Quranic Guidance: “And be moderate in your pace and lower your voice; indeed, the most disagreeable of sounds is the voice of donkeys.” (Quran 31:19)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever is not merciful to others will not be treated mercifully.” (Sahih Bukhari)

9. Refraining from Extravagance and Wastefulness

Extravagance in spending and wastefulness are discouraged in Islam.

Quranic Guidance: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” (Quran 17:27)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls to keep him going.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)

10. Avoiding Arrogance and Pride

Arrogance and pride are seen as major spiritual diseases in Islam, leading one away from humility and sincerity.

Quranic Guidance: “And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.” (Quran 17:37)
Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise.” (Sahih Muslim)

What Is Death? A Friend or a Foe?

Death, the inevitable end of life, is a subject that elicits a range of emotions and thoughts. In Islamic teachings, death is not merely the cessation of physical life but a transition to another, eternal realm. The perspective on death in Islam varies based on one’s faith and deeds.

For the righteous, death is considered a friend, a gateway to eternal peace and the reward of Paradise. For the wrongdoers, however, it is seen as a foe, leading to punishment and regret. Let’s understand the Islamic view of death and how it serves as both a friend and foe, depending on one’s actions in life.

The Islamic View of Death

In Islam, death is seen as a part of Allah’s divine plan and an essential component of the human journey. The Quran describes life and death as a means of testing humanity:

“Blessed is He in Whose Hand is the dominion of the Universe, and Who has power over everything; Who created death and life that He might try you as to which of you is better in deed” (Quran 67:1-2).

Meaning, that life is a test, and death marks the conclusion of this test, with the outcomes determining one’s eternal abode.

Death as a Friend for the Righteous

For the righteous, those who live a life of faith, good deeds, and adherence to Allah’s commands, death is a friend. It signifies the end of worldly trials and tribulations and the beginning of eternal bliss. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the death of a believer as a joyful event, where angels bring glad tidings of Paradise and comfort them during their passing:

“Indeed, those who say, ‘Our Lord is Allah’ and then remain steadfast – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], ‘Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised'” (Quran 41:30).

See how this verse encapsulates the peace and reassurance given to the believers at the time of death. For the righteous, death is not an end but a transition to a better, eternal life.

Surah Al-Fajr (89:27-30): “O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing. Enter among My servants and enter My Paradise.”

This verse illustrates that for those who have lived a life of piety and righteousness, death is an invitation to join Allah in eternal bliss.

Surah Al-Ankabut (29:69): “And those who strive for Us—We will surely guide them to Our ways. And indeed, Allah is with the doers of good.”

This verse signifies that the efforts of the righteous are rewarded with divine guidance and ultimately, a favorable outcome in the hereafter.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also referred to death as a reunion with Allah, which is the ultimate aspiration of every believer:

“Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him” (Sahih Bukhari).

Hadith from Sahih Muslim: “When the believer is about to depart from this world and enter the Hereafter, angels come to him with a shroud from Paradise and perfume from Paradise, and they sit with him.”

This illustrates the comforting presence and preparation for the righteous at the time of death.

For the righteous, death is not something to be feared but rather an opportunity to meet their Creator and enter a state of eternal peace and joy.

Also Read: Why Does Allah Tell Stories of the Prophets in the Qur’an?

Death as a Foe for the Wrongdoers

In contrast, for the wrongdoers—those who reject faith, engage in sinful behavior, and disregard Allah’s commandments—death is a foe. It marks the beginning of punishment and retribution for their misdeeds. The Quran describes the fear and despair of the wrongdoers at the time of death:

“And if you could but see when the wrongdoers are in the overwhelming pangs of death while the angels extend their hands, [saying], ‘Discharge your souls! Today you will be awarded the punishment of [extreme] humiliation for what you used to say against Allah other than the truth and [that] you were, toward His verses, being arrogant'” (Quran 6:93).

This verse illustrates the agony and regret of those who failed to live righteously. The realization that they have wasted their lives and are now facing the consequences makes death a terrifying foe. They face the reality of their actions and the impending punishment, with no chance of return or rectification.

Surah Al-Saffat (37:63-65): “Indeed, this is the tree of Zaqqoom. It is food for the sinful. Like molten brass, it boils within bellies, like the boiling of scalding water.”

See how this illustrates the torment that awaits those who have lived in sin, emphasizing the severe consequences of their actions.

The Role of Faith and Deeds

Islam teaches that the nature of death—whether it is a friend or foe—depends largely on one’s faith and deeds during their lifetime. The concept of accountability is central in Islam. Every soul will be judged based on their actions, and death is the gateway to this divine judgment. The Quran emphasizes the importance of preparing for this inevitable moment:

“O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow – and fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do” (Quran 59:18).

Hadith from Sahih Muslim: “The grave is either a garden from the gardens of Paradise or a pit from the pits of Hell.”

So its upto you to make your grave a garden from the gardens of Paradise or a pit from the pits of Hell through your actions in this life.

Conclusion

The Quran’s reminder of the fragility of life serves as a profound call to reflect on our priorities, actions, and ultimate purpose. It encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of our existence, beyond the superficial and transient aspects of worldly life. By keeping our focus on our return to Allah and our eternal destiny, we can navigate the journey of life with greater wisdom, compassion, and a sense of true fulfillment.

The Quranic verses and prophetic teachings together provide a comprehensive framework for living a meaningful and balanced life, ever mindful of the ultimate reality that awaits us. Embracing the lessons from death and the afterlife can transform our lives, guiding us toward a path of righteousness and spiritual success.

Ultimately, the awareness of our mortality should inspire us to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, striving to fulfill our duties to Allah and humanity. It reminds us that our true home is not in this world but in the hereafter, where our actions and intentions will be weighed and judged. By living with this awareness, we can achieve a sense of peace, contentment, and fulfillment, knowing that we are preparing for the ultimate return to our Creator.

Death is a significant milestone that reflects the nature of one’s life. For the righteous, it is a friend that brings them closer to eternal reward, while for the wrongdoers, it is a foe that signifies the beginning of divine retribution. Understanding this dual aspect of death encourages believers to live a life of righteousness, to embrace death as a transition to eternal peace, and to prepare diligently for the afterlife.

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