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As-salamu `alaykum, Nancy.
Thank you for your question and for trusting us to answer it for you.
Death is a fact of life. It may sound strange to say that, but it is something that every one of us should prepare for and keep in mind at all times. None of us knows how long we will live on this earth. We do not know when or how we will die. If we live a good and pious life, then death is something that we should not fear. We have complete faith and trust in Allah that He will protect us from the punishment of the grave and the greater punishment of the Hellfire.
If, however, we are leading sinful lives, we will not look forward to the next life. On the contrary, we would do everything we can to enjoy this life no matter what kind of actions that might lead us to. The important thing to remember is that Allah has promised Paradise to those who follow His guidance and He has warned us about the Hellfire that He is preparing for those who refuse to follow His guidance. He commands us only to do what benefits us, and He warns us against falling into sinful behavior, those things that are harmful to us.
When the time of death comes to believers, the angels take their souls out very gently, as easily as a drop of water falls out of a glass. The believers are given signs that their time is near, and the transition to the next world is almost painless. The soul of the unbelievers, however, are snatched away in a rough manner, and no warning signs are given. It is a terrible experience for them.
The graves of believers are well-lit, spacious, and comfortable resting places where their worldly deeds come to them as a handsome companion who speaks kindly to them. An opening will be shown to them through which they can see their places in Paradise. They will ask Allah to bring the Day of Judgment quickly so that they can receive their reward.
The graves of disbelievers are dark, restrictive, and gloomy places where their deeds come to them as an ugly, abusive person who beats them and calls them names they dislike. An opening will be shown to them through which they can see their places in the Hellfire. They will beg Allah that He would not bring the Day of Judgment so that they avoid being sent there to be punished for eternity.
Allah says in the Qur'an what means: *{Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and regular charity, will have their reward with their Lord: on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.}* (Al-Baqarah 2:277) If we do our best to obey Allah and follow His commands in this life, we will have nothing to fear in this life at the time of death or in the hereafter. We are confident in Allah’s promise of Paradise for those who work hard to earn this great reward.
We ask Allah that He guides us to what pleases Him and that we fear none but Him. If you still fell scared of death and you think you cannot overcome that fear, please contact our Cyber Counselor section and talk to them about your fears. They will definitely be able to help you about that insha’a Allah. Thank you and please keep in touch.
As-salamu `alaykum.
Useful Links: Cyber Counselor Death: a Reality, not a Philosophy Birth… Death… to the Hereafter
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