Akhirah (OCR GCSE Religious Studies): Revision Notes
2.2.5 Akhirah
Akhirah (Life After Death)
In Islam, Akhirah refers to the belief in life after death. Muslims believe that this life is a test for the hereafter. After death, individuals will be resurrected and judged by Allah based on their deeds in this world. This belief in the afterlife gives purpose to a Muslim's life, guiding them to live righteously and in accordance with Islamic teachings.
When a person dies, their soul is taken by Azra'il, the Angel of Death. Subsequently, Allah sends two angels to question the soul during this waiting period. If the soul answers these questions correctly, the righteous soul will rest peacefully in Barzakh until the day of judgement. However, if the answers are incorrect, the soul will experience torment by the angels, known as the punishment of the grave.
Human Responsibility and Accountability
Muslims believe that humans are given free will and are responsible for their actions. This responsibility means that individuals are accountable to Allah for their behaviour. On the Day of Judgement, everyone will be held accountable for their deeds. Good actions will be rewarded, and bad actions will be punished. This concept encourages Muslims to act ethically and follow the principles of Islam, knowing they will be judged fairly by Allah.
Resurrection
Resurrection is the belief that on the Day of Judgement, all humans will be brought back to life. Muslims believe that Allah will resurrect everyone, and they will stand before Him to be judged. This event signifies the beginning of eternal life, either in heaven or hell, based on one's earthly deeds. Resurrection underscores the importance of living a moral life and adhering to Islamic teachings.
Heaven and Hell
Heaven (Jannah) and hell (Jahannam) are the final destinations in the afterlife. Heaven is described as a place of eternal peace, happiness, and reward for those who have lived righteously and followed Allah's guidance and prayed for forgiveness.
There are seven levers of heaven, the seventh however being seen as "many." Each layer has its own characteristic, being made by different materials, with a different prophet inhabiting each level.
Hell, on the other hand, is a place of punishment and suffering for those who have rejected faith and committed sinful acts. Hell is described as a place of eternal punishment and pain, both spiritually and physically.
The descriptions of heaven and hell in the Qur'an and Hadith aim to motivate Muslims to live piously and avoid sinful behaviour, ensuring their place in heaven after judgement.