In this still sparkling, bright 21st century many of us have forgotten about death. It is a scary stranger. One we do not dare think about for fear that it will creep up behind us and whisk us away from the only life we know. In the past however, death was an ever present friend. People were born and died at home, surrounded by family or friends, death was accepted as an inevitable part of life. Death has become a stranger confined to cold hospital mortuaries and quiet, manicured funeral homes. The rights of the dying and the dead are no longer of paramount concern.
Death will come for each and every one of us. Prophet Muhammad,peace be upon him, said, “Always remember the destroyer of pleasures – death”.[1] The religion of Islam has not forgotten death, nor has it forsaken the rights of the dying. Islam provides us with a complete set of instructions for the one who is dying, those who are present at the time of death and those responsible for burying the deceased individual.
“Everyone shall taste death.” (Quran 3:185)
How those facing death should behave
Death is inevitable however there are certain things that a believer can do to prepare for his departure to life everlasting.
The first is to remain patient in the face of an event over which we have no control, and those suffering illness or injury should refrain from accusing or cursing God for his or her misfortunes. There are many authentic sayings and traditions from Prophet Muhammad that explain how and why illness and injury expiate sins and evil deeds. On this web site you will find articles that go into great detail about the benefits of patience and accepting the will of God[2].
“How wonderful is the affair of the believer, for his affairs are all good. If something good happens to him, he is thankful for it and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience and that is also good for him.”
