Are There Signs Before Our Death in Islam?

According to Islam, death is a natural part of life, but it remains a mystery that none of us fully understand, such as the exact timing or the place of our departure. While there are specific signs in other belief systems that might indicate an impending end, in Islam, there are no guarantees or specific signs of death. However, there are personal experiences and accounts that suggest there might be subtle indications, such as severe sickness.

Indications of Death in Islam

In general, the knowledge of one's end has been described as a very personal and fleeting experience. The angels who take the soul of a person are said to be seen by them, but this is not a universal experience. The Quran provides us with one such example: P, while drowning, had a moment of realization: “And when death comes to Pharaoh, he said, 'My Lord, return me to life that I may have a good work in that which my Lord has guided me'” (Quran 10:92).

Personal Accounts of Near-Death Experiences

Though it is not usual, some individuals have shared experiences of signs before their death. Here is a personal account from a person whose mother was in the final stages of terminal cancer:

A Personal Story

About thirty years ago, my mother was lying in bed, bedridden due to terminal cancer. She looked aged beyond her years, but her brain had begun to be affected, preventing her from feeling pain, which was considered a blessing. Three days before she passed away, I awoke early in the morning, my tears warm on my cheeks. In a vivid vision, I saw my mother standing under a magnificent tree, waving goodbye. She looked twenty, healthy, and radiantly happy to be leaving. Behind her was a pathway leading to a green meadow with a small brown cabin amidst a forest, all bathed in golden light. I asked her, “Look at you! You look so healthy and beautiful! Where are you going?” She replied, “I'm leaving.” As I wiped my tears, the door to my room opened, and my mother walked in, embraced me, and then returned to bed. My father and I were discussing tea in the kitchen later in the afternoon when he shared a similar dream he had that morning, describing the exact same vision.

There was also a lady my mother was fond of who often helped with household chores. She visited us three days after my father and I had our visions and wept uncontrollably. She shared that she too had had the exact same dream three days prior to my mother's passing. This woman later visited us again and confirmed that my mother passed away that night. Two days later, she informed us that she had again had the same vision.

So, yes, there are signs that a loved one is about to leave this world. These signs are personal and not widely recognized, but they hold a profound significance between family members.

Is There a Three-Day Window Between Signs and Death?

A few years ago, while researching near-death experiences (NDEs) in Islam, I stumbled upon an Islamic forum where someone shared a vision very similar to mine: a tree, a meadow, a cabin, a path, and golden light. This curiosity among Muslims to explore the significance of these experiences has led to broader discussions and possible associations with near-death experiences.

While the duration between these signs and death is very short, they serve as a beautiful farewell and a way for the departed to express their love and sentiments. In Islam, every detail, even the seemingly insignificant, has a profound meaning and significance.

Conclusion

Death, while already a natural process in Islam, can often be wrapped in unique and mysterious signs for some individuals. These signs, whether fleeting visions or personal connections, serve as a reminder of the spiritual journey we all undertake. Understanding and embracing these experiences with faith and trust can help us navigate the complexities of life and death with greater peace.