As we navigate through the course of life, it's easy to get caught up in the race for wealth, status, and power. However, it's crucial to remember that our time on this earth is but a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of things. The real test of our existence lies in al-Barzakh (the afterlife), where we will be held accountable for our deeds and decisions.
The Al-Barzakh phase of life is a reality that seems surreal. It's the point where a man realizes the true nature of his existence and understands the consequences of his actions. It's a time when it's too late to make amends for the wrongs done in this world. A man might wish to be returned to the world to amend his ways, but that request will be denied.
Every day is an opportunity to lead a pious life, a chance to do more no matter how small. Our health, wealth, and time are all resources that will be accounted for by Allah, and hence, we must use them wisely. Don't let the chief deceiver—Shaytaan, deceive you into thinking that you don't have enough or that you still have time. There's nothing in this world that can truly satisfy man, and time waits for no one. What truly matters is that you perform good deeds, no matter how small. Every good deed you do will be to the credit of your soul.
Never underestimate the power of a good deed. Have you heard the story of the prostitute who gave water to a thirsty dog and was granted forgiveness and admission to paradise by Allah? Or the story of the man who killed a hundred people but was granted pardon by Allah because of his true repentance? The moral of these stories is that no good deed is too small, and no sin is too great for Allah to forgive.
The life of al-Barzakh is the realm of the graves. It's a transitional phase where people are neither in this world nor the Hereafter. It's a time when people will begin to reap the fruits of their deeds until the Day of Resurrection. No one will want to come back to this world or accumulate more wealth. However, many will wish they could go back to perform acts of obedience to Allah.
Therefore, while you have the chance, perform simple deeds that will earn you the mercy and rewards of Allah. Our noble Prophet ﷺ said:
“Doing justice between two people is sadaqah; assisting a man to mount his ride or lifting up his belongings onto it is sadaqah; a good word is sadaqah; every step you take towards prayer is sadaqah; and removing harmful things from pathways is sadaqah.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
Bye-Line
Remember, the power of a good deed is immeasurable, and even the smallest act of kindness can earn you forgiveness and admittance to paradise. Let us not lose hope in Allah's forgiveness and strive to lead a life that pleases Him. How apposite were the words of the Messenger of Allah in this hadith reported by Bukhari: “Do such deeds as you can do easily, as Allah will not get tired of giving rewards until you get bored and tired of performing religious deeds.”
It is my hope that you'll be inspired by this reminder to engage in at least one good deed a day. It could be saying a kind word to encourage someone or wiping away the tears of a distressed person. May Allah guide us all to the straight path and grant us the strength to perform good deeds that will benefit us in this life and the Hereafter. Aameen.
Jazakumullahu khaeran ✨
جزاک اللّٰہ ۔۔۔ يرضيك الله