In the last moments of life, every Muslim is encouraged to remember Allah with certain supplications. These duas not only bring comfort to the person passing away but also serve as a reminder of our return to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised us to recite specific duas during this time to affirm our belief in Allah and seek His mercy.
The Dua to Recite Nearing Death
When death is near, the most important statement a Muslim can say is the Kalima:
Arabic
لا إلهَ إلاّ اللّه
Transliteration
Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu
Translation (English)
“There is none worthy of worship but Allah.”
Translation (Urdu)
“اللہ کے سوا کوئی عبادت کے لائق نہیں۔”
This short dua is a declaration of faith and belief in the oneness of Allah. It should be the final words a Muslim utters before leaving this world. The importance of this dua is mentioned in a hadith of Al-Bukhari (3346), where the Prophet (PBUH) emphasized that anyone whose last words are “Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu” will enter Paradise.
Another Dua to Recite Before Death
Another important dua to recite during the last moments of life is:
Arabic
أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَهَ إلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّداً عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ
Transliteration
Ash-hadu ‘an laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu wa ‘ash-hadu ‘anna Muhammadan ‘abduhu wa Rasooluhu
Translation (English)
“I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, Who has no partner; and I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and His Messenger.”
Translation (Urdu)
“میں گواہی دیتا ہوں کہ اللہ کے سوا کوئی عبادت کے لائق نہیں، وہ اکیلا ہے اور اس کا کوئی شریک نہیں؛ اور میں گواہی دیتا ہوں کہ محمد ﷺ اللہ کے بندے اور رسول ہیں۔”
This testimony of faith reaffirms the core beliefs of Islam, acknowledging Allah’s oneness and the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH). Reciting this dua helps in strengthening one’s connection with Allah at a crucial time and assures them of returning to Him with the testimony of truth.
When to Recite These Duas
These duas should be recited when a person senses that death is near, such as during a severe illness or a critical situation. Family members and friends present at the time can gently remind the person to say these words, or they can recite them on behalf of the person if they are unable to speak.
Importance of Reciting Duas Before Death
Reciting these duas at the end of life holds great significance in Islam. It is a final expression of one’s belief in Allah, and it serves as a source of comfort and peace. These words remind us that our ultimate return is to Allah, and that our faith will accompany us as we transition from this life to the next.
Affirmation of Faith
The Kalima and the testimony reaffirm the believer’s faith in Allah and His Prophet. These final words act as a summary of a Muslim’s belief, ensuring that the person departs from this world with complete faith.
Hope for Mercy
By reciting these duas, a person seeks Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. In our final moments, we turn to Allah alone, asking for His compassion and grace as we prepare to meet Him.
Peace and Calm
For those witnessing the death of a loved one, hearing these duas can bring peace. Knowing that the dying person is returning to Allah with words of faith provides comfort during a difficult time.
FAQs About Duas Nearing Death
Q: What should a dying person say according to Islam?
The most important thing a dying person should say is “Laa ‘ilaaha ‘illallaahu,” the declaration of faith, or the Kalima. Family and friends can gently remind the person to say it.
Q: What if the dying person cannot speak?
If the person is unable to speak, others can recite the duas aloud in their presence. It is believed that the person can still hear and benefit from these words, even if they cannot say them.
Q: Can I recite the dua for someone else?
Yes, family members and friends can recite these duas aloud in the presence of the dying person. It serves as a reminder and brings peace to both the one reciting and the one passing away.
Q: Should the dua be recited only when death is certain?
No, the duas can be recited when a person feels their death might be near, such as during a severe illness or life-threatening situation. It is also beneficial to recite these duas at any time for reflection and remembrance of Allah.