The Views of Scholars on the State of the Souls

■ The Views of Scholars on the State of the Souls

The views among scholars regarding the state of the souls after death vary significantly. Here are some of the key perspectives:

1. Souls in Paradise:

Some scholars believe that the souls of the believers reside in Paradise. This applies to both general believers and martyrs, provided they are free from major sins or debts (i.e., no outstanding debts at the time of death). This viewpoint is supported by the opinions of companions such as Abu Hurairah and Ibn Umar (r).

2. Souls at the Gates of Paradise:

Another perspective holds that the souls remain at the gates of Paradise, enjoying its cool breezes and the blessings available there.

3. Souls in Graves:

Some scholars assert that the souls of the believers remain in their graves until the Day of Resurrection.

4. Freedom of Movement:

Imam Malik stated that souls have the freedom to move where they wish, coming and going as they please. Imam Ahmad emphasized that the souls of the disbelievers are in Hell, while the believers’ souls are in Paradise.

5. Souls with Allah:

A group of scholars, including some companions and followers, believes that the souls of the believers reside with Allah ﷻ, but they did not elaborate further on this matter.

6. Souls in Different Realms:

Some scholars assert that the souls of the believers reside in the 7th heaven, while the souls of the disbelievers are in the 7th earth, beneath the forces of Satan.

7. Location Relative to Adam (علیہ السلام):

Another view is that the souls of the believers are positioned on the right side of Adam (علیہ السلام), while the souls of the disbelievers are on his left side.

During the Night of Ascension, it is reported that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encountered the souls and described their state in a way that moved his family to tears. He mentioned that the souls of the believers reside in green birds, enjoying the blessings of Paradise. They rest under golden lamps beneath the Throne of Allah ﷻ and express their longing to have their brothers join them, wishing for the promises made to them to be fulfilled.

Conversely, the souls of the disbelievers are said to be in black birds, enduring suffering and torment, consuming the bitterness of their fate while being punished in the fire.

These varying perspectives illustrate the profound complexity of beliefs regarding the afterlife. The consensus emphasizes the importance of striving for righteousness, as the state of one’s soul after death is intricately tied to their deeds and faith during their earthly life.