Some societies tend to glorify and praise death. This tendency is also observed in some Eastern societies, where poets and writers often extol death rather than emphasizing life and humanity. This societal reflex may stem from the fact that people have a closer relationship with death. However, it can also be understood as related to contemplating mortality and recognizing the transient nature of life.
The glorification of death can also be seen as a product of tyrannical states, characterized by the mentality of “the state accepts no partners.” In such states, the emphasis lies on the importance of individuals for the survival of the state, where all state resources should be mobilized to save one person, yet individuals are not to be sacrificed. In contrast, Western democratic principles and human rights advocate for the use of state resources for the benefit of citizens. For instance, in the aftermath of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023, affecting 13 million people in 10 provinces, some state officials attempted to evade responsibility by attributing the disaster to divine will. Such statements highlight the unacceptable practice of trying to cover up negligence.
In contrast, following the collapse of the Twin Towers in the aftermath of 9/11, the United States swiftly rebuilt its disaster management center within three days and emerged from the crisis. In major disasters such as cyclones and hurricanes, local governments take the lead, with federal intervention only when necessary. Non-governmental organizations and faith-based institutions also play significant roles in assisting local governments. Through public education and earthquake drills, awareness is raised among the populace, ensuring that main roads remain open and casualties are minimized. The most significant distinction between democratic countries like America, Europe, and Australia lies in their people-centric approach, where laws apply to everyone, including heads of state, and where the state acknowledges partnerships.
The Quran encourages actions that promote life. The epitome of humanity lies in serving and benefiting human beings and existence itself. The ultimate goal is to understand and serve existence, life, and humanity better. Death is not viewed as an end by the giver of life. While life may be transient, humans were not created for eternal death and annihilation. Human beings are the essence of life, and death gains its true meaning through the significance that life imparts to it. While death may signify the end and annihilation for some, for others, it represents tranquility and reunion with loved ones. For some, it signifies liberation from burdens and entry into a realm of reward. Eternal peace or eternal torment—will we not depart this world in the manner in which we lived?
Religion imbues life with meaning and beckons us towards the eternal. At its core, Islam exalts life rather than death, calling upon humanity to embrace life and existence. Death is not an endpoint but rather a new beginning. The birth of a child and their journey through existence are celebrated, as they are born to live, not to die. Those who unjustly take lives have no true connection with religion or the ultimate arbiter of life and death. The holy book states, “It is He who brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living, and He revives the earth after its death. That is how you will be brought forth,” and “Every living creature will taste death. We test you with good and evil. And to Us only will you be returned.” These truths remind us of our existence within the realm of being and non-being. We fulfill the purpose of our existence through the responsibility imposed by life, with a consciousness of servitude, and by striving for excellence. Life transcends mere existence; reducing this noble goal to mere pleasure would be simplistic.
Compassion is the cornerstone of life—it is the reason for our existence. Compassion grants us opportunities and brings us into existence, sending the Sultan of existence as a mercy. Mothers exemplify boundless love through their compassion. Despite our cruelty, mistakes, sins, forgetfulness, and negligence, mercy does not forsake us; it endows us with countless blessings and promises eternal life after death. Life itself is the greatest gift bestowed upon us by the infinitely merciful.
Life is a journey towards uncovering the secrets of the truth of the Divine Names. It requires perseverance, navigating through the darkness, preserving the excitement of ascent in our hearts, and adhering to the laws of the journey. Death is but a traveler guiding us to our destination. Standing firm in the face of adversity, showing resilience, and maintaining composure—the true heroes are those who face death without fear or hesitation.
