8.6 — Resurrection and the Last Day

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Main Content

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1. Introduction — Why This Belief Matters

Belief in the Resurrection and the Last Day is the fifth article of faith in Islam. It is one of the most important beliefs a Muslim can hold. In the Holy Quran, belief in the Last Day is mentioned very frequently — often right alongside belief in Allah SWT. This shows just how central this belief is.

If a person does not believe in the Last Day, other beliefs lose their meaning. For example, why would someone pray, fast, or be honest if they did not believe they would one day answer to Allah SWT for their actions? This is why this belief is described as essential for true Iman (faith) and Hidayah (guidance).

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2. Death — The Beginning of the Journey

Death is not the end. For a Muslim, death is the beginning of a long journey towards the Last Day. The Holy Quran reminds us:

Reference: Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:35 Context: This verse teaches students that death is a universal truth — no one escapes it. Life itself is a test from Allah SWT, full of both good times and hardships. All of us will ultimately return to Him.

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3. The Grave — Qiyamat-e-Sughra (The Lesser Judgement)

Once a person dies and is buried, a stage called Qiyamat-e-Sughra (the Lesser Judgement) begins. This happens inside the grave for every individual.

What happens in the grave?

• Two angels, known as Munkar and Nakir, visit the deceased in their grave.
• They ask three important questions (as narrated in Abu Dawud 4753):
  • Who is your Lord? (Man Rabbuka?)
  • What is your religion? (Ma Dinuka?)
  • What do you say about this man [referring to Prophet Muhammad PBUH]?
• Based on the answers given, the person's experience in the grave is decided:
  • If the answers are correct and the person had lived righteously, their grave becomes comfortable and pleasant — like a garden of paradise.
  • If the answers are incorrect or the person was sinful, their grave becomes a place of suffering — like a portion of hellfire.