What Happens on the Day of Judgement in Islam? Events, Stages & Islamic Beliefs
The Day of Judgement, known in Arabic as Yawm al-Qiyamah, is one of the core pillars of Islamic belief. Every Muslim is required to believe in life after death, resurrection, and accountability. The Quran and Hadith describe this day in vivid detail, explaining what happens when the world ends and humanity faces the ultimate reckoning.
So, what exactly happens on the Day of Judgement in Islam? Let’s explore the events, stages, and significance of this monumental day.
What is the Day of Judgement (Yawm al-Qiyamah) in Islam?
The Day of Judgement is the final day when all humans will be resurrected after the end of the world and brought before Allah (Azza wa Jalla) for accountability (Hisab). This day marks the beginning of eternal life, either in Paradise (Jannah) or Hellfire (Jahannam).
The Quran refers to it by several names, including:
- Yawm al-Qiyamah (The Day of Resurrection)
- Yawm ad-Deen (The Day of Recompense)
- As-Sa’ah (The Hour)
What Happens on the Day of Judgement in Islam? – A Step-by-Step Overview
1. The Blowing of the Trumpet by Israfil
The first event is the blowing of the trumpet by the angel Israfil, which will cause the entire universe to collapse. The second blowing will resurrect all the dead.
Quranic Reference:
“And the Trumpet will be blown, and at once they will be from the graves to their Lord they will hasten.” (Surah Yaseen: 51)
2. Resurrection and Gathering (Hashr)
All humans, from Adam (AS) to the last person, will rise from their graves and gather on a vast plain. They will be barefoot, unclothed, and uncircumcised.
Hadith: The Prophet ﷺ said:
“You will be gathered barefoot, naked, and uncircumcised.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
3. The Reckoning and Accountability (Hisab)
Every individual will be questioned about their deeds:
- Prayer (Salah) – the first thing to be accounted for.
- Rights of people (Huqooq al-Ibad) – wronging others will be settled.
- Wealth – how it was earned and spent.
The Quran says:
“And We will set up the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection…” (Surah Al-Anbiya: 47)
4. The Scales (Mizan)
The Mizan will weigh a person’s good and bad deeds. A heavy scale of good deeds leads to success, while a light scale leads to loss.
5. The Books of Deeds (Sijjin and Illiyyun)
- Right Hand: If given the book in the right hand, it’s a sign of salvation.
- Left Hand: If given in the left hand, it’s a sign of doom.
6. The Sirat Bridge
A bridge thinner than a hair and sharper than a sword will be placed over Hellfire. The righteous will cross it quickly, while sinners may fall.
7. Intercession (Shafa’ah)
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ will intercede for believers. This intercession is a great mercy for those who had faith but committed sins.
8. Final Destination: Jannah or Jahannam
After judgment, everyone will be led to their eternal abode:
- Jannah (Paradise) for those with faith and good deeds.
- Jahannam (Hell) for disbelievers and those who failed in accountability.
Signs Before the Day of Judgement
Islam teaches minor and major signs before Qiyamah:
- Minor signs: Spread of immorality, dishonesty, and loss of trust.
- Major signs: Appearance of Dajjal, descent of Isa (AS), rising of the sun from the west.
High-Value Concepts in the Day of Judgement
| Concept | Meaning in Islam |
|---|---|
| Hisab | Accountability for deeds |
| Mizan | Scales for weighing deeds |
| Sirat | Bridge over Hellfire leading to Paradise |
| Shafa’ah | Intercession of the Prophet ﷺ |
| Sijjin/Illiyyun | Registers for the wicked and the righteous |
FAQs About the Day of Judgement in Islam
1. What happens first on the Day of Judgement?
The first event will be the blowing of the trumpet by Israfil, which will cause the dead to resurrect.
2. What questions will be asked on the Day of Judgement?
People will be asked about Salah, wealth, time, and knowledge.
3. What is the Sirat in Islam?
The Sirat is a bridge over Hellfire that everyone must cross to reach Paradise.
4. What is the Mizan?
The Mizan is the scale that weighs good and bad deeds.
5. Can sins be forgiven on Judgement Day?
Yes, by Allah’s mercy and through Shafa’ah (intercession) of the Prophet ﷺ.
6. What is Shafa’ah?
It is the Prophet Muhammad’s intercession for believers on the Day of Judgement
Conclusion
The Day of Judgement is a reality every Muslim must prepare for. It reminds us that life is temporary, and what we do today will decide our eternal future. Strengthen your faith, follow the Sunnah, and seek Allah’s mercy to succeed on that day. Read about Azza
For more authentic Islamic guidance, visit Ehidayat.com.
External Reference: IslamQA on Yawm al-Qiyamah