Death is inevitable, it is a reality which no one can deny. Yet many fear even the thought of it. Shaytaan keeps us occupied and does not allow us to ponder upon death, in this way we stay heedless from what is to come.

When genuine recognition of death enters the heart, it weakens our attachment to this world and unlawful pleasures. Thereafter our attention and concern shifts towards the hereafter. This is why our Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said “Frequently remember the destroyer of pleasures,’ meaning death.”

Our focus at the moment is centred towards worldly pursuits, whereas it should be towards the hereafter. We are deeply engaged in earning wealth and aquiring status, forgetting that true success lies in attaining salvation in the hereafter.

It is reported that ‘Awn b.’Abdillah Allah have mercy on him – said:
“Those before you used to give to their worldly affairs what was left over from their pursuit of the hereafter. But today, you give to the matters of the hereafter the leftovers from your pursuit of worldly affairs”.

Each of us should question ourselves, if death was to come at this moment, are we prepared?

Practising Muraqaba al-maut which is reflection upon death will help soften our hearts and help us focus our attention on the true goal of this life.