The Call for Hereafter

Showkat sat quietly in his room, contemplating the weight of existence. He had always been a thoughtful man, but today, his mind wandered to places it rarely ventured. He imagined his own passing, not with fear, but with a sense of profound understanding. In his mind's eye, he saw his Muslim brothers gathering, their faces solemn yet purposeful. They would undress him, wash his body with care, and wrap him in clean, white cloth. He could almost hear their whispered prayers as they carried him from his home one final time. He pictured his janaaza, the funeral prayer. Friends and colleagues would leave work early, reschedule appointments, all to bid him farewell. The thought brought a bittersweet smile to his face. Showkat glanced around his room. His keys lay on the shelf , books stacked neatly on the shelf, his favorite cycle  by the door. "What will become of these things?" he wondered. He hoped his family would donate them, allowing his possessions to continue bringing benefit even after he was gone. The world, he knew, would continue its ceaseless motion. Markets would open, close, and open again. Someone else would step into his role at work. His wealth would pass to his heirs, while he alone would stand accountable for how he had used it. A sad realization washed over him. His name, once so important, would fade quickly. "Where's the body?" they'd ask. "Bring the janaza," they'd say. His identity, reduced to "the deceased." Showkat shook his head, suddenly aware of the fleeting nature of worldly status and fame. How small it all seemed compared to what lay beyond. He thought of those he'd leave behind. Some would grieve deeply, others briefly before life pulled them back into its rhythm. Even his family's sorrow would eventually soften, his memory becoming a gentle ache rather than a sharp pain. "My story here will end," Showkat murmured, "but my true story—the one that really matters—will only be beginning." He closed his eyes, imagining himself stripped of all worldly possessions and attributes. In that moment of transition, he realized, only his actions would accompany him. Showkat's eyes snapped open. "What have I prepared?" he asked himself. He thought of his prayers—both obligatory and voluntary. He recalled the charities he had given in secret, the good deeds he had done without fanfare. But was it enough? With renewed purpose, Showkat rose from his chair. There was still time—time to pray, to give, to do good. Time to prepare for the life that truly mattered. He picked up his phone, composing a message to share these reflections with others. "If Allah wills," he thought, "perhaps this reminder will be a source of good deeds on the Day of Judgment." He felt a sense of peace wash over him. Whatever lay ahead, he would face it with faith, preparation, and the hope that his actions in this life would bear fruit in the next.

Lesson learned:

This story teaches us several important lessons:

1. The transient nature of worldly life: Our possessions, status, and even our identities in this world are temporary.
2. The importance of preparation for the afterlife: Our actions, good deeds, and spiritual practices are what truly matter and will accompany us after death.
3. The value of reflection: Taking time to contemplate our mortality can lead to profound insights and positive changes in our lives.
4. The significance of charity: Both material charity and sharing wisdom can have lasting impacts, even after we're gone.
5. The power of faith: A strong spiritual foundation can provide comfort and guidance when confronting life's biggest questions.
6. The continuity of life: While our individual stories may end, life goes on for others, reminding us to make the most of our time.
7. The importance of leaving a positive legacy: Our actions in this life can continue to benefit others and ourselves in the hereafter.
8. The Importance of Spiritual Investment: Just as we invest in our careers and material possessions, the story emphasizes the crucial need to invest in our spiritual lives. Regular prayer, acts of charity, and good deeds are presented as the true currency of the afterlife, encouraging us to balance our worldly pursuits with spiritual growth.

Ultimately, this story encourages us to live mindfully, prioritize our spiritual growth, and strive to make a positive impact in the world while we still have the opportunity. While it might seem morbid to some, the story shows how contemplating our mortality can be a powerful tool for personal growth and spiritual awakening. It can motivate us to resolve conflicts, express love, and live more authentically.

Dr Showkat Rashid Wani, Senior Coordinator, Directorate of Distance Education, University of Kashmir