Epigraph:

“Does not man see that We have created him from a mere sperm-drop? He disputes openly, producing arguments against Us, forgetting his own creation. He says, ‘Who can give life back to bones after they have decayed?’ Say, ‘He who created them in the first place will give them life again: He has full knowledge of every act of creation. It is He who produces fire for you out of the green tree, lo and behold, and from this you kindle fire. Has not He Who created the heavens and the earth the power to create the like of them?’ Yes, and He is indeed the Supreme Creator, the All-Knowing. Indeed, His command, when He intends a thing, is only that He says to it, ‘Be!,’ and it is. So Holy is He, in Whose hand is the kingdom of all things. And to Him will you all be brought back.’” (Al Quran 36:77-83)

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Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD, Chief Editor of the Muslim Times

In Islam, the concept of the afterlife, known as Akhirah, is a fundamental tenet of faith. The Quran, Islam’s holy scripture, provides detailed descriptions of life after death, emphasizing its significance in guiding believers’ actions and moral conduct in this world.

In addition to Monotheism, the afterlife is mentioned in almost all Surahs, except the last few short Surahs.

Belief in the Afterlife

Belief in the afterlife is integral to Islamic faith, influencing a Muslim’s daily life and decisions. The Quran underscores the transient nature of worldly life (dunya) and contrasts it with the eternal nature of the hereafter. It encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual well-being over temporal pleasures.

Stages of the Afterlife

1. Death and Barzakh: Upon death, the soul enters Barzakh, an intermediary state where it resides until the Day of Judgment. This period serves as a barrier between the worldly life and the afterlife.
2. Resurrection and Judgment: The Quran describes a trumpet blast signaling the end of the world, followed by the resurrection of all beings. Each individual will be judged based on their deeds, determining their eternal abode.
3. Paradise (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam): The righteous are promised eternal bliss in Paradise, depicted as gardens beneath which rivers flow, while wrongdoers face punishment in Hell, characterized by intense suffering.

Quranic Verses on the Afterlife

• On the Transience of Worldly Life: “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…” Wikipedia
• On Resurrection: “Does man think that We will not assemble his bones? Yes. [We are] Able [even] to proportion his fingertips.” Iman Updates
• On Judgment: “So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.” Iman Updates
• On Paradise: “Indeed, the righteous will be among gardens and rivers, in a seat of honor near a Sovereign, Perfect in Ability.” Qiratul Quran
• On Hell: “And fear the Fire, which has been prepared for the disbelievers.” Qiratul Quran

Significance in a Muslim’s Life

The Quran’s emphasis on the afterlife serves as a moral compass for Muslims, reminding them of the consequences of their actions. It encourages adherence to Islamic principles, fostering a sense of accountability and purpose.

In summary, the Quran provides a comprehensive narrative of the afterlife, detailing the journey of the soul and the eternal destinations awaiting individuals based on their earthly conduct. This belief shapes the ethical and spiritual framework within which Muslims strive to lead righteous lives.

Additional reading

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