Reflections on Life, Death, and the Value of a Meaningful Life
Alhamdulillah, we gather again on this beautiful Jumu’ah, the best day of the week, to remember Allah, reflect on our lives, and remind ourselves of what truly matters in this world and the next.
Let’s begin by contemplating a profound reality — the moment of death. Has anyone here witnessed someone in their final moments, transitioning from this world to the next? In Arabic, this transition is known as Sakarat, and the Prophet ﷺ told us:
"Indeed, death has its pangs (sakarat)."
(Musnad Ahmad)
We are taught to make du’a to Allah to ease these moments for us:
اللَّهُمَّ هَوِّنْ عَلَيْنَا سَكَرَاتِ الْمَوْتِ
“O Allah, make the pangs of death easy upon us.”
I recently sat beside a close relative in his last moments. It reminded me — death is not easy. It is a difficult transition for every soul, and we must be prepared for it.
Today is a warm, beautiful day. While we enjoy Allah’s blessings, we must be mindful — not only of our health by staying hydrated and safe — but also of our hearts and eyes.
Especially for our young brothers and sisters: while we cannot control how others behave or dress, we can control our own gaze and actions. The Prophet ﷺ instructed us to lower our gaze and guard our modesty. This is part of our dignity and identity.
We’re also entering the school holiday season, and sadly, each year we see the rise of certain harmful trends. One such trend is the obsession with prom parties, extravagant nights, and competitions over who can flaunt the most.
Young people — you are the future of this Ummah. You are far greater than the car you drive, the trainers you wear, or the watch on your wrist.
Your worth does not come from these things. Allah created you with honour. You are valuable because you are a believer, a follower of Muhammad ﷺ.
It saddens me when I see teenagers hiring expensive cars, partying recklessly, and behaving in ways that contradict our values. What is it for? To impress others? For a fleeting moment of fake admiration on social media?
I often tell my son when he asks for branded trainers because his friends have them:
"You don’t need those to be valuable. Allah made you greater than that."
We must remember:
“It is not your clothes or possessions that make you great — it is your character, your faith, and your relationship with Allah.”
The Prophet ﷺ taught us to reflect on blessings by saying:
"Subhana-ladhi sakh-khara lana hadha…"
When you get into a car, a plane, or even when enjoying a blessing — acknowledge it comes from Allah, not from your own doing.
The truth is — no matter what we collect in this world, it stays behind. Allah says in the Qur'an:
“Until you visit the graveyards.” (At-Takathur 102:2)
We came from the soil and will return to the soil. What truly matters is how we live our life and what legacy we leave behind.
When a person dies, even their name is taken away. People no longer say “Where is Muhammad?” — they say, “Where is the body?”
Live your life meaningfully. Serve others. Honour your family. Be someone whose absence is felt with love, not relief.
The Prophet ﷺ once passed by a funeral and said:
"Mustarih wa Mustarrah minhu"
Which means, "A person who is at peace now, or one from whom others are at peace."
The companions asked for clarification, and the Prophet ﷺ explained:
A good person leaves this world to the peace and mercy of Allah.
A corrupt person leaves, and people, animals, and the land itself find relief.
Which one do we want to be? Think about how your presence impacts those around you. Strive to be remembered with kindness and prayers, not resentment.
Young brothers, you are leaders in the making. You are worth more than any designer clothes, flashy cars, or social media likes.
When I see you, I should be reminded of Allah. When you walk the streets, let your character reflect the Prophetic example — kindness, humility, and integrity.
Stay away from reckless behaviour. Avoid dangerous substances, harmful gatherings, and wasteful pursuits.
And remember:
Life is short. Live it well. Prepare for the next life. Make every day count as though it’s your last.
Be cautious about toys and trends harmful to our values, like the Labubu toy which is gaining popularity.
When attending Janazahs, make sincere du’a for the deceased. Du’a doesn’t have to be long or elaborate; sincerity is what matters.
Support your local masjid and community initiatives, including charitable efforts and youth activities.
May Allah give us all a long, meaningful life filled with goodness, and may He ease our final moments. May He make us among those who are a source of peace in this world and honoured in the next.
Ameen.
