THE LIFE-GIVING EFFECTS OF BELIEF IN DEATH

THE LIFE-GIVING EFFECTS OF BELIEF IN DEATH Right Perspective A YOUNG man graduated from an Islamic University in India. His intention to pursue further studies was shattered when he received news of his father’s death. His father had tended the small bit of family owned land. With no one else to till the land, his mother and younger siblings were at a loss. He was now the breadwinner of the family. Conscious of his responsibilities, he realised he would have to give up the idea of further studies and take up his father’s work on the family farm. The young man had a close friend, a senior teacher at the university. He went to take leave of him saying he was going home and would not be returning. The teacher asked him the reason for this sudden change of heart. “My father is dead and now as senior member of the family, I must return to look after household affairs. There seems to be no way to pursue my studies further.” His teacher was silent for a moment. Then, looking up at the young man, he asked: “Tell me, are you immune from death? Can you be certain that you yourself will not die on reaching home? What will happen if you do? Who will look after your family then?” No human being, he said, could look after another. God alone is responsible for everyone’s upkeep and maintenance. “God will look after your family, even if your father is gone. Mortals may come and go, but He carries on His work of providing mankind with sustenance. You persevere with your studies, and seek Almighty God’s help to manage the situation. Just imagine for a while that you too have passed away.” The young man took his teacher’s advice. He decided to trust in God to help him with his affairs. He carried on with the arrangements for further education, sending an application to Medina Islamic University. His application was accepted, and he went to Medina. On completion of the course, the Darul Ifta of Saudi Arabia sent him to an African country in a missionary and teaching capacity. In April 1980, having To base one’s life on belief in death is considered a negative attitude. But belief in death has a dynamically positive effect on people’s lives.