The Remembrance of Death

Shaykh Abdur-Rahman (hafizahullah) begins by mentioning the Qur’anic verse in which Allah describes the servants upon whom He sends His peace and mercy. In this verse from Surat al-Baqarah, Allah explains that when calamity befalls them, they say: “Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.” He then explains that the seeker should recognise the nature of this worldly life: it is inevitable that one will experience hardship and trial. Believers, in particular, will be tested in their wealth, health, and lives. He further advises that remembering death and reflecting upon the rewards and blessings Allah has prepared for the believers in the Hereafter helps cultivate patience and steadfastness in times of loss and calamity. As a result, even amid worldly hardship, the seeker’s heart can remain tranquil and at peace.