Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: “When a man dies, his acts come to an end, but three—recurring charity (Sadaqah Jariyah), knowledge by which people benefit, or a pious son who prays for him.”
One of the most impactful acts we can do for the deceased is to make dua (supplication) on their behalf. It is our ongoing prayers, supplications, and remembrance that continue to benefit them beyond this life.
Another hadith narrated by `Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her) states: A man said to the Prophet (ﷺ), “My mother died suddenly, and I think that if she could speak, she would have given in charity. May I give in charity on her behalf?” The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, “Yes! Give in charity on her behalf.”
Recitation Upon Hearing News of a Passing
When learning of someone’s death, it is recommended to recite this verse from the Quran—ayah 156 of Surah Al-Baqarah—revealed to console those facing loss:
- Arabic Text: إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّآ إِلَيْهِ رَٰجِعُونَ
- Transliteration: Innā lil-Lāhi wa innā ilayhi rājiʿūna
- Meaning: Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.
Dua for the Deceased (Specific Supplication)
For a Named Individual
- Arabic Text: اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِفُلَانٍ (باسمه) وَارْفَعْ دَرَجَتَهُ فِي الْمَهْدِيِّينَ، وَاخْلُفْهُ فِي عَقِبِهِ فِي الْغَابِرِينَ، وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَلَهُ يَا رَبَّ الْعَالَمِينَ، وَافْسَحْ لَهُ فِي قَبْرِهِ وَنَوِّرْ لَهُ فِيهِ
- Transliteration: Allahumma ighfir li Fulān (bi ismihi) warfaʿ darajatahu fil-mahdīyīna, wakhlufhu fī ʿaqibihi fil-ghābirīna, waghfir lanā wa lahu yā Rabbal-ʿālamīna, wafsah lahu fī qabrihi wa nawwir lahu fīhi
- Meaning: O Allah, forgive [name of the person] and elevate his station among those who are guided. Make him follow the path of those who came before (the righteous predecessors), and forgive us and him, O Lord of the worlds. Enlarge his grave for him and shed light upon him within it.
Reflecting on Grief and Healing
Losing a loved one is deeply difficult, and each of us copes in our own way. There is no “right” or “wrong” response—our emotions are a natural part of the human experience.
Common advice often encourages “strength,” but it is important to know that crying, feeling vulnerable, or mourning deeply is completely normal. Do not suppress these feelings or label yourself as weak for experiencing them. Maturity lies in acknowledging your pain, seeking support from loved ones who care for you, and prioritizing your own well-being.
Take care of your physical health: spend time in sunlight, engage in gentle exercise, and ensure you rest—these acts nurture your body and mind during grief.
Instead of fixating on the loss, reflect on the gratitude for the time and experiences you shared with the deceased. As human beings, we naturally desire joy without sorrow, but love and loss are intertwined—one cannot fully appreciate the warmth of connection without acknowledging the pain of separation. Celebrate the memories you cherish, and honor their legacy through your actions.
Remember, one of the greatest gifts you can give the deceased is to include them in your daily duas, fast on their behalf, or give charity (Sadaqah) in their name. These acts are a source of ongoing good for them and a reminder of the bonds that transcend this life.
Allah knows best. InshaAllah (God willing), we will all be reunited in Jannah (Paradise), where we will meet our loved ones again in eternal peace.
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"Allah's guidance to spread the Qur'an, unite Muslims, and strengthen Islam!" "هداية الله لنشر القرآن وتوحيد المسلمين وإعزاز الإسلام!"