According to Islamic beliefs, a dying person sees the Angel of Death (Azrael) and his helpers. This is a pivotal moment where the soul begins its transition.
The Appearance of the Angel of Death
The appearance of the Angel of Death varies depending on the deceased person's righteousness.
- For Believers: The Angel appears in a beautiful and comforting form, bringing glad tidings of Paradise.
- For Disbelievers: The Angel appears in a terrifying and dreadful form, foreshadowing the punishment to come.
The Helpers of the Angel of Death
The Angel of Death is assisted by angels who either bring mercy or punishment. These angels play a crucial role in the soul's journey after death.
Events After Death
Following death, Islamic tradition states:
- Questioning in the Grave: Immediately after burial, the deceased encounters two angels, Munkar and Nakeer. These angels make the person sit up in their grave and question them about their faith, deeds, and knowledge of Islam.
- Consequences: The answers given determine the person's initial state in the grave. Those who answer correctly experience comfort and ease, while those who fail face punishment and torment.
Important Note
It is important to acknowledge that these are matters of faith and unseen realities (Ghaib) revealed in Islamic scriptures. Details are based on interpretations of the Quran and Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him).
