Death and the post-mortal phase in the Sunnah: Guidelines

Abstract

UDK: 28-42-28

This article thematizes the guidelines within the legacy left by the Messengers.w.s. with regard to the death and the postmortal phase of human existence. The work is divided into two chapters. The first chapter offers a review of the Hadith wherein the Messenger s.w.s. relates to his own passing away.  It includes the following: preparation for death and one’s awareness of the temporary nature of this life; having good thoughts about Allah teala before passing away; not wishing for one’s own death; patience in difficult circumstances and prohibition of suicide; and doing more good deeds and limiting dispositions of the property before one’s death/terminal illness and paying back one’s debts. The other chapter thematizes Messenger’s guidelines in regard to the death of others. This chapter discusses the following: paying a visit to a sick person and the guidelines for doing so; guidelines related to one’s conduct towards the terminally ill as well as one’s conduct after someone passes away; announcing a person’s death; coping with the passing away of the close relatives; duties towards the family of the deceased; preparation of the body of the deceased including the ritual bath, janaza salah and the burial; keeping in mind that the person has the right to dignity in one’s death and to be treated in accordance after the demise; guidelines with regard to the look of the mazar/grave, glorifying the dead and other non’Islamic customs, and other duties towards the deceased.