Why Early Islamic Scholars Wept When Recalling Death

The article delves into the profound contemplation of death among early Islamic scholars, known as the Salaf, and explains their frequent weeping when mortality was recalled. In a world often consumed by worldly pursuits like ambition, wealth, and status, the Salaf maintained a keen awareness of death's inevitability, viewing each passing day as a step closer to their ultimate end.

This constant remembrance of death was not a morbid obsession but a conscious effort to live a more meaningful life. The Quranic verse, "Every soul will taste death. And you will be given your wages in full on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is removed from the Fire and admitted to Paradise will have succeeded. And the life of this world is only the enjoyment of delusion" (QS Ali Imran: 185), underscored this perspective.

The Salaf employed various practices to keep the awareness of death present. Visiting graves, as explained by Imam Al-Ghazali, served not only to remember the deceased but also to remind oneself of mortality and learn from those who have passed. Imam An-Nawawi also noted that remembering death and the hereafter was a primary purpose of grave visitation.

This practice was even exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad, who visited the graves of his mother and companions. Beyond visiting graves, the Salaf would also discuss death openly. The article recounts an instance where Ali bin Abi Thalib spoke about death to Muslims, his tears moving the listeners to weep as well. For them, death was not merely a topic of discussion but an ever-present reality shaping their consciousness.

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Every soul will taste death. And you will be given your wages in full on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is removed from the Fire and admitted to Paradise will have succeeded. And the life of this world is only the enjoyment of delusion.