Reasons for the Punishment of the Grave
The Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – identified numerous causes that may lead to the punishment of the grave. Among these is gossiping and a lack of cleanliness from urine. The Prophet – peace be upon him – mentioned these two transgressions together when he passed by two graves, informing those around him that the individuals within were being punished, not for major sins, but for their negligence in maintaining cleanliness and their involvement in gossiping. Other factors that contribute to this punishment include backbiting, which involves speaking ill of others in their absence, and embezzlement, defined as stealing from war spoils before they are distributed. The Prophet – peace be upon him – recognized these deeds as leading to the grave’s torment. Furthermore, engaging in heinous acts such as adultery, consuming interest (riba), lying, neglecting the Quran, and sleeping through obligatory prayers can also result in such punishment. The Prophet – peace be upon him – stated: “As for the one whose head is smashed with a stone, it is because he recites the Quran and rejects it while sleeping through his obligatory prayers.”
The Path to Salvation from the Punishment of the Grave
In His infinite mercy, Allah – Glorified and Exalted be He – has revealed ways for His servants to escape His punishment. Among the detailed paths to salvation from the torment of the grave is the adherence to divine commandments. Allah says: “Indeed, those who have said, ‘Our Lord is Allah,’ and then remained steadfast – the angels will descend upon them, [saying], ‘Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.’” This verse indicates that angels offer glad tidings to a believer at the time of death and in the grave. Furthermore, diligently observing the five daily prayers and supplementing them with additional voluntary prayers serve as protection against the grave’s punishment, providing comfort to the individual after burial when their loved ones depart. The Prophet – peace be upon him – has emphasized this. Additional righteous deeds include striving in the path of Allah and attaining martyrdom in His cause.
Surah Al-Mulk and Protection from the Punishment of the Grave
Surah Al-Mulk is distinguished by numerous virtues as mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him. He used to recite this Surah every night and expressed his desire for every believer to memorize and act upon it. Among the virtues the Prophet attributed to Surah Al-Mulk is that it acts as a safeguard against the punishment of the grave and serves as an intercessor for the one who recites it. Consequently, the companions of the Prophet referred to it as “the protector.”