By Rana Rais Khan – Editor-in-Chief, “Hiba” magazine
The tragic death of 48 years old Shahzada Dawood and his 19 years old son with three other passengers in an implosion is the current news headline.
Usually, following any devastating accident, speculation and commentary is rife. Especially on the social media. We have two extreme views: for and against. Logic, evidence, and loose tongues all spring to life.
Likewise, on one hand, loved ones and acquaintances are paying respect and condolences for the demised father and son, sharing their personal encounters with either or both.
On the other hand, some of the distant public is bashing the lifestyle of the rich and famous, as if almost to say: “They earned it for wasting money on a dangerous and mindless expedition.”
Here, without sounding prejudiced, I would attempt to present how Islam, the true Deen of Allah (swt), guides us.
- Death is Decreed for Everyone
It was narrated by Abdullah bin Masud (rtam) that the Prophet (sa) said: “If the appointed time of death of anyone of you is in a certain land, some need will cause him to go there, then, when he reaches the furthest point that it is decreed for him to reach, Allah takes (his soul). And on the Day of Resurrection, the earth will say: ‘My Lord, this is what You entrusted to me.’” (Ibn Majah)
Why did they take the trip? Why didn’t they choose another company? What the trip was worth? Considering the above Hadeeth, do these questions even matter? For a believer, I think not.
Was it not then decided that this was the way they were supposed to return from the mortal world to their Lord as per His divine creation plan?
The Quran states about Allah (swt): “He brings the living out of the dead and brings the dead out of the living, and brings to life the earth after its lifelessness. And, thus, will you be brought out.” (Ar-Room 30:19)
- The Deceased Must be Respected
Islam with all its grace, mercy, and highest values deplores backbiting of the living or the dead. Gossiping, slandering, and violating anyone’s reputation is a major sin.
As believers, we are guided only to speak good of the demised souls. The matter is now between them and their Lord.
Their term of action (good deeds) has ended in this world. They are no longer in a position to defend themselves. It is only human that their honour should be held high.
Muslims are commanded to make Dua (invocation) for the deceased. If they indulge in mud-slinging against the dead, they are accountable before Allah (swt).
- Investigation Should be Carried Out
Allah (swt) has created this universe on the principle of Haqq (truth) and Adl (justice). Every creation was created to serve a purpose. Their number, size, variety, and measurement were planned by the Creator through His perfect design. Hence, Allah (swt) has commanded His creation to serve each other with the same truth and justice.
If there has been negligence, foul play or any other injustice causing the ill-fated implosion, a transparent investigation must be carried out and the perpetrators must be brought to book.
- The Incident Should be a Reminder for Our Own Death
The greatest lesson one can derive from anyone’s death is to remind himself/herself that we are all in queue. It should serve as a reminder for us to re-evaluate our life against the Divine commandments of Allah (swt). Are we on track? If not, is it not time for us to prepare for our own departure from this temporary world.
Mainly, we should assess, how well we have served our purpose of life as believers.
- Good Thoughts About Allah (swt)
Allah (swt) is Al-Mumeet (The Giver or Creator of death). Everything and every form of life has been created for an appointed term only known to Allah (swt).
However, Allah (swt) is also Ar-Rahman (The Beneficent), Who nurtures His creation with utmost mercy. His decrees are based on wisdom, knowledge and mercy. As Muslims, we must have the most noble thoughts about Allah (swt) and trust His Divine plans, as He is the only One with the might and power to execute.
I urge my readers to have Husn Zan Bil Allah (good thoughts about Allah (swt)), even in the worst of calamities and trying times, when nothing makes sense.
Allah knows best.
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