Where do animals go when they die? It’s a question everyone asks once in their life and I asked it recently when my beloved goat died a few days ago, but why? Just because we love our pets or animals that roam freely on the streets that make our earth pleasant? No, but because we have a strong connection to them on a deeper level. And we want them to remain our companion even in the after life.
So if you are eager to know about it, explore this article and enlighten yourself with facts.
Animal After life in Islam
Animals play a big part in our lives. But what happens to them after they die? Scholars have different views on the afterlife for animals. Some believe animals are judged and then return to dust, others say they might be rewarded in some way.
The Cycle of Life and Return
Some Islamic scholars believe animals simply decompose and return to dust after fulfilling their purpose in this life. “It signifies a return to Allah, the Creator, from whom all life originates.” [Surah Baqarah 2:156].
The Importance of Kindness
The Quran repeatedly emphasizes treating animals kindly. The story of Prophet Yunus (Jonah) (peace be upon him) teaches us that Allah’s mercy extends even to animals, as a giant fish saves the prophet. [Surah Al-Saffat verses 139 to 148].
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) strengthens this message through his teachings (Hadith). One narration describes a man who entered Paradise to give water to a thirsty dog. The Prophet said, “A man saw a dog eating mud from (the severity of) thirst. So, that man took a shoe (and filled it) with water and kept on pouring the water for the dog till it satisfied its thirst. So Allah approved of his deed and made him to enter Paradise.” [Sahih al-Bukhari 173] .
These examples highlight that Allah values acts of compassion towards animals.
The Day of Judgement and Resurrection
On the day of judgment, everyone will be gathered, “There is not a moving (living) creature on earth, nor a bird that flies with its two wings, but are communities like you. We have neglected nothing in the Book, then unto their Lord, they (all) shall be gathered.” [al-An‘aam 6:38] This includes not just humans, but also jinn (spirits) and possibly animals.
While details about the judgment of animals are not explicitly mentioned, some scholars believe they will be held accountable for their actions based on their instincts, “All creatures will be gathered on the Day of Resurrection, animals, beasts, birds, and everything. Then Allah’s justice on that day will reach such an extent that Allah will settle the score for the hornless animal with the horned one. Then He will say, ‘Be dust,’ at which point the disbeliever will say: ‘Would that I were dust!’[an-Naba’ 78:40] [Muṣannaf ʿAbd al Razzāq].
Animals usually do what they’re made to do, like predators hunting for food. They’re not blamed for that. But if people make animals act differently from what’s natural, like being mean to them, then that could be seen differently.
A Special Place for Some Creatures
Some Islamic traditions mention ten animals will enter Paradise, these are;
- The Buraq of Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The She-Camel of Prophet Salih (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Ram of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Calf of Prophet Ibrahim (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Ant of Prophet Sulaiman (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Hoopoe (hudhud) of Bilqis
- The Dog of the Companions of the Cave
- The Donkey of Prophet Uzair (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Whale that Swallowed Prophet Yunus (Peace Be Upon Him)
- The Cow of Musa (Peace Be Upon Him)
This highlights the importance of animals in Islamic history and their connection to the prophets.
Finding Comfort in Empathy
In Islam, it remains a matter of scholarly discussion about what happens to animals after they die. But what’s important is that we treat animals nicely and with care. Allah likes it when we’re good to animals, even if they don’t have the same afterlife as us. This thought can make us feel better when we lose a beloved pet.
Cherishing the Bond
The loss of a beloved animal is a deeply personal experience. Even though they’re not with us anymore, we still have the memories and love we shared. We can keep feeling close to them by doing good things in their memory, like giving money or food to animal shelters, or helping stray animals.
Conclusion
There’s no definitive answer to where animals go when they die. But one thing is clear: treating animals with kindness matters. It pleases Allah and offers solace when a beloved pet passes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do animals understand death?
A: Animals might not understand death like humans do, but they can feel sad when a friend is gone.
Q: Do dogs have spirits?
A: Some people believe dogs have spirits, but it’s a mystery that’s hard to prove.
Q: What happens to the bodies of euthanized animals?
A: When animals are euthanized, their bodies are usually handled respectfully, sometimes cremated or buried, depending on local laws and practices.
Q: Is it possible to communicate with pets after death?
A: There’s no scientific evidence of communicating with pets after death. But some people find peace in cherishing memories of their beloved pets.
Q: Are there animals that represent passed loved ones?
A: There is no concrete answer for this. However, some people believe butterflies and birds are common symbols.
