The moment of death is a profound transition, marking the soul’s departure from the world and its journey into the unseen. Islamic teachings, rooted in the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah, provide a detailed and compassionate account of what the deceased experiences—from the agony of the soul’s removal, the utterances of faith, the rituals of washing and burial, to the moment when loved ones depart, leaving the soul to its new reality. Understanding these stages not only prepares believers for their own eventual meeting with Allah ﷻ but also brings comfort and clarity to those left behind.
The Significance of Death in Islam
Death is not the end but a passage to the eternal life. The Qur’an repeatedly reminds us of the certainty of death and the importance of preparing for it:
“Every soul will taste death. And you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection…”
(Qur’an 3:185)
This awareness shapes the Muslim worldview, encouraging righteous deeds and remembrance of Allah ﷻ.
The Final Moments: The Pain and Fear of Soul Removal
The Qur’an and Sunnah describe the soul’s departure as a moment of truth, where the reality of faith is unveiled. For the believer, the process is gentle and reassuring; for the disbeliever or sinner, it is filled with terror and pain.
“If you could but see when the angels take the souls of those who disbelieved… They are striking their faces and their backs and [saying], ‘Taste the punishment of the Burning Fire.’”
(Qur’an 8:50)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) described the agony of death for the wicked as akin to dragging an iron skewer through wet wool, tearing veins and sinews. In contrast, the righteous soul is received with glad tidings and is extracted as easily as water pouring from a jug.
The Utterance of Shahadah at Death
The utterance of the Shahadah—La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah—at the moment of death is highly emphasized. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Whoever’s last words are ‘La ilaha illallah’ will enter Paradise.”
(Abu Dawood, 3116; authenticated by Al-Albani)
It is recommended for those present to prompt the dying person gently to say the Shahadah, but not to pressure them.
The Soul’s Journey: Barzakh and the Grave
After the soul’s removal, it enters Barzakh, an intermediate realm until the Day of Resurrection:
“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.”
(Qur’an 23:99-100)
Here, the soul experiences either peace and comfort or distress and punishment, reflecting its deeds in the world.
Rituals After Death: Ghusl, Shrouding, and Burial
Islamic tradition prescribes a dignified and swift burial, beginning with ghusl (ritual washing), shrouding, and the funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah):
- Ghusl (Washing the Body): The body is washed three times—first with water mixed with lotus leaves, then with camphor water, and finally with pure water. The process is performed with utmost respect and privacy.
- Shrouding (Kafan): The deceased is wrapped in plain white cloth, symbolizing equality and humility before Allah ﷻ
- Funeral Prayer: The community gathers to pray for the forgiveness and mercy of the deceased.
- Burial: The body is placed on its right side facing the Qiblah. The grave is filled, and loved ones may recite supplications and Qur’anic verses, particularly Surah Al-Qadr.
The Deceased Hears the Footsteps
A remarkable teaching from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is that the deceased is aware of the presence of loved ones even after burial:
“When a human being is laid in his grave and his companions return and he even hears their footsteps, two angels come to him and make him sit and ask him: ‘What did you use to say about this man, Muhammad?’…”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 23: Funerals)
This moment marks the beginning of questioning by the angels Munkar and Nakir.
The Grave: The First Stage of the Hereafter
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the grave’s significance:
“Verily, the grave is the first stage of the Hereafter. If one is saved from it, whatever comes after will be easier for him. If one is not saved from it, whatever comes after will be harder for him. I have never seen anything more frightening than the grave.”
(Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2308)
The soul is questioned about its Lord, religion, and prophet. The righteous answer with ease, while the wicked falter, leading to either comfort or punishment in the grave.
Common Questions About Death and the Hereafter
What happens to the soul immediately after death?
The soul is received by angels—merciful ones for the believer, harsh ones for the disbeliever. The soul’s journey to Barzakh begins, and its experience reflects its life’s deeds.
Is the pain of death the same for everyone?
No. For the righteous, the soul’s removal is gentle and peaceful; for the wicked, it is agonizing and fearful, as described in both Qur’an and Hadith.
Can the dead hear the living?
Yes, the deceased hears the footsteps of those leaving the grave and is aware during the initial questioning by the angels.
What is the significance of the Shahadah at death?
Uttering the Shahadah is a sign of faith and a means to Paradise, as emphasized by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
What are the key rituals after death in Islam?
Ghusl (washing), shrouding, funeral prayer, and burial facing Qiblah are essential rites, all performed with dignity and respect.
Lessons for Modern Muslims
In today’s fast-paced world, reflecting on the reality of death grounds Muslims in humility and purpose. The rituals and teachings surrounding death foster community support, compassion, and a reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Preparing for death—spiritually and practically—remains an integral part of Islamic life, encouraging regular remembrance of Allah ﷻ, seeking forgiveness, and maintaining good relations with others.
Conclusion: Embracing the Inevitable with Faith
Death is the ultimate certainty, a transition every soul must face. The Qur’an and Sunnah provide detailed guidance, transforming fear into hope and confusion into clarity. The journey from the agony of soul removal to the serenity of the grave is shaped by faith, righteous deeds, and the mercy of Allah ﷻ.
Let us remember:
“O you who have believed, fear Allah as He should be feared and do not die except as Muslims [in submission to Him].”
(Qur’an 3:102)
May Allah ﷻ grant us a good ending, ease in the grave, and reunion in Paradise with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the righteous. Reflect on your own life: are you prepared for this journey? Now is the time to return to Allah ﷻ, seek forgiveness, and live with purpose.
