The 3 Key Signs Indicating That a Person May Sense Their Impending Death

Death stands before us as the inevitable end of human life, so much so that even considering it can cause deep anxiety for many. While it might be tempting to avoid the topic, we cannot sidestep its reality. Sooner or later, regardless of our age, we will all step into that eternal realm. But can a person sense in advance when they are about to depart this life? How does the moment of death unfold, and what do our bodies and souls experience as it draws near?

In the sections below, we will examine critical issues such as the “signs of approaching death,” “how death occurs,” and “the death experiences of believers and non-believers,” using insights from the Qur’an and reputable written sources, aiming to shed light on the stark reality of death.

Avoiding Thoughts of Death

For some, the thought of death is so intimidating that even discussing it evokes discomfort. This tendency is especially pronounced among younger individuals, whose vibrant energy and expansive dreams might lead them to feel as though death is far beyond their horizon. However, no matter how long we live, death will inevitably knock on our door. The best approach is to keep this fact in mind, live life more consciously, and recognize that death is not merely an ending but also a profound transition. (See Ibn Maja, Zuhd, 4277)

Can a Person Sense They Are About to Die?

From a medical standpoint, death is understood as the cessation of brain and cardiac functions. Yet the question “Can a person sense they will die?” also involves a spiritual and faith-based dimension that transcends medical explanation.

• Faith Perspective: According to the Qur’an, the process of dying is carried out by angels on God’s command, and only through Qur’anic guidance can we understand how the soul experiences that transition (see Surah Al-Mulk, 2). The Prophetic traditions (hadith) also offer numerous insights about the moment of death.
• Shifts in Behavior and Emotional State: In the days or hours before death, an individual may express a desire to finalize their will, visit relatives, or behave with unusual sentimentality. These actions could reflect a subconscious or divinely inspired awareness. Though the person might not be able to articulate these feelings, they may harbor an inherent sense of their approaching end.

3 Fundamental Signs That Death May Be Near

Physically and emotionally, human beings often go through significant changes as life nears its close—changes that can be understood as preparations for the transition.

1. Loss of Appetite and Declining Energy
   • A dying person begins to lose interest in daily tasks and nourishment. Even their favorite foods become unappealing, and they may stop eating and drinking altogether.
   • Rapid weight loss ensues, alongside a marked reduction in physical strength.
2. Increased Sleep or Extended Periods of Rest
   • As the body’s metabolism slows, the individual may prefer sleeping longer or remaining in bed more frequently. This can be viewed as an “energy-conservation” phase.
   • They often withdraw from their surroundings and exhibit a more introspective demeanor.
3. Social Withdrawal and Turning Inward
   • When death is near, a person may minimize social interactions and choose solitude, as if engaging in a personal reflection or reckoning.
   • Everyday conversations and social ties recede into the background during this contemplative period.

Beyond these three principal indicators, there are also other observable physical changes, such as a slowing pulse, altered breathing, low blood pressure, reduced kidney function, and a drop in body temperature. (Consult Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya, “Kitab ar-Ruh”)

The Experience of the Soul and Perceptions at Death

While medical science can describe the physical aspects of dying, it cannot fully convey how the soul experiences this profound transition. The Qur’an explains that outsiders cannot witness the spiritual occurrences during a person’s final moments (Surah Al-Waqi’ah, 83–85).

• The Believer’s Death: For a faithful person (a “mumin”), the soul leaves the body gently, like slipping away in a tranquil sleep. Angels greet the soul with peace, and the individual experiences death as though passing through a doorway into paradise (Surah An-Nahl, 32).
• The Non-Believer’s Death: For one who denies the truth, the soul is taken with intense anguish. Angels strike the person’s face and back, delivering news of Hellfire. All the fears and denials come crashing into reality, often accompanied by overwhelming regret (Surah Al-Anfal, 50).

The Medical Process of Dying

Bodily death occurs in stages: the brain shuts down, then the heart. When the heart stops pumping, blood flow to the brain and kidneys halts, causing consciousness to fade. At this point, vital signs disappear. (Refer to “Fundamental Approaches in Medicine,” p. 45)

• First 30 Minutes: Reflexes are lost, muscles relax, and involuntary functions like urination may occur.
• Within 10 Hours: The body undergoes rigor mortis—muscular stiffening. High adrenaline levels can accelerate this process.
• After 24 Hours: Decomposition begins. Microbial activity in the digestive tract fosters bloating and gas release, sometimes creating audible sounds.

Death: A New Beginning for the Believer

According to the Qur’an, a true believer faces no fear at the moment of death, as it ushers in a realm of eternal peace (Surah Fussilat, 30–31). Upon entering the afterlife, the believer embarks on endless tranquility and joy.

Endless Regret for the Unbeliever

For those who have lived in denial, death marks a harrowing and dark entry point. Awareness dawns suddenly, but any opportunity to repent or accept faith has already passed (Surah Al-Mu’minun, 99–100).

Final Thoughts

Death represents the final boundary of our earthly existence and the beginning of our existence in the Hereafter. For the believer, it is a welcoming door; for the disbeliever, it heralds the first glimpse of unending torment. Ultimately, the true key is to live each day with a constant awareness of death, guided by conscience and responsibility.

“Every soul will taste death…” (Surah Aal ‘Imran, 185)

Never forget: Death is a reality, and remembering it can be a catalyst for living more sincerely, responsibly, and meaningfully.

References (Academic Format)

• Ibn Maja, Zuhd, 4277.
• Surah Al-Mulk, 2.
• Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya, Kitab ar-Ruh.
• Surah Al-Waqi’ah, 83–85.
• Surah An-Nahl, 32.
• Surah Al-Anfal, 50.
• Surah Fussilat, 30–31.
• Surah Al-Mu’minun, 99–100.
• Surah Aal ‘Imran, 185.
• Fundamental Approaches in Medicine, p. 45.

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