In this article, we will discuss the Islamic view on death—specifically exploring core beliefs, the burial process, how to offer condolences in Arabic, the proper dua to recite upon hearing of someone’s passing, and key Quranic verses and hadith related to this profound topic.
Core Beliefs and Burial Practices
Islamic beliefs and customs may vary slightly between the two major sects, Sunni and Shia, but shared foundational truths and practices unite Muslims worldwide.
Muslims believe that the soul continues to exist after death, leaving the body immediately upon passing. The soul reflects the character shaped by the individual’s choices and actions in life. On the Day of Judgement, only Allah will determine whether a person qualifies to enter Jannah (Paradise).
A key practice is to bury the deceased without unnecessary delay. The Janazah (burial prayer) and funeral should take place within 24 hours of passing, honoring the sanctity of the soul and body.
How to Offer Condolences in Islam & Dua for When Someone Dies
When receiving news of a death, Muslims often recite a powerful verse from the Quran (2:156), which serves as both a dua and a reminder of faith:
- Transliteration: Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
- English Translation: “Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’”
How to Say “Rest in Peace” in Arabic
Common Arabic phrases to express condolences and mercy for the deceased include:
- Allah Yerham: “God bless” or “God have mercy”
- Allah Yerhamo: “God bless him” or “God have mercy on him” (for males)
- Allah Yerhamha / Allah Yerhama: “God bless her” or “God have mercy on her” (for females)
Quranic Verses on Death
Islamic scripture offers profound guidance on death, the Hereafter, and patience:
- “And this worldly life is not but diversion and amusement. And indeed, the home of the Hereafter is the [eternal] life, if only they knew.” (Quran 29:64)
- “Those who believe and guarded (against evil): they shall have good news in this world’s life and in the hereafter.” (Quran 10:63-64)
- “…and be patient. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” (Quran Surah Anfal; 8:46)
- “O soul that is at rest! Return to your Lord, well-pleased (with Him), well-pleasing (to Him). So enter among My servants, and enter into My garden.” (Quran 89:27-30)
- “[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed – and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.” (Quran 67:2)
- “On the day that every soul shall find present what it has done of good and what it has done of evil, it shall wish that between it and that (evil) there were a long duration of time; and Allah makes you to be cautious of (retribution from) Himself; and Allah is Compassionate to the servants.” (Quran 3:30)
Hadith on Death and Funerals
Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) provided timeless guidance on how Muslims should approach death, funerals, and remembrance of the deceased:
- The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Whenever you see a funeral procession, stand up for that until it moves away or is lowered on the ground.” This teaches respect for all deceased, regardless of religion or background.
- He also advised: “Do not abuse the dead, for they have reached the result of what they have done.” This prohibits backbiting or speaking ill of those who have passed—an act that serves no purpose and contradicts Islamic values.
- “Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him, and whoever hates to meet Allah, Allah hates to meet him.”
- The Prophet (pbuh) explained: “Relieved or relieving. And a believer is relieved (by death).”
- Muslims are taught not to fear death but to accept it as Allah’s will. The Prophet (pbuh) said: “None of you should wish for death because of a calamity befalling him; but if he has to wish for death, he should say: ‘O Allah! Keep me alive as long as life is better for me, and let me die if death is better for me.’”
- Gabriel (peace be upon him) brought the Prophet (pbuh) good news: “Anyone from my nation who dies without associating partners with Allah will enter Paradise.” When the Prophet (pbuh) was asked if this included those who committed adultery or theft, he confirmed: “Even if he commits adultery and theft.”
Conclusion
“There is nothing the busy man is less busied with than living.”
In the chaos of daily life, we often get distracted by trivial matters and forget to cherish the present moment. Death reminds us of life’s impermanence—and the importance of living in accordance with Allah’s guidance, showing kindness to others, and nurturing our faith. May this knowledge inspire us to live intentionally, with gratitude and purpose.
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