INTERMEDIATE STATE
The state of the soul between the time of death and the resurrection is generally expressed by the term ‘Alam- i-Barzakh, for an explanation of which refer to the article BARZAKH. Sufi writers use the term “Alam-i-Arwah, “The world of spirits.”
From the Traditions it would appear that Muhammad taught that the intermediate state is not one of unconsciousness. To the wicked it is certainly not; but inasmuch as the Muslim is encouraged to “sleep like the bridegroom,” it may be inferred that the intermediate state of the Muslim is held to be one of absolute repose.” [PUNISHMENTS OF THE GRAVE.]
The state of the soul between the time of death and the resurrection is generally expressed by the term ‘Alam- i-Barzakh, for an explanation of which refer to the article BARZAKH. Sufi writers use the term “Alam-i-Arwah, “The world of spirits.”
From the Traditions it would appear that Muhammad taught that the intermediate state is not one of unconsciousness. To the wicked it is certainly not; but inasmuch as the Muslim is encouraged to “sleep like the bridegroom,” it may be inferred that the intermediate state of the Muslim is held to be one of absolute repose.” [PUNISHMENTS OF THE GRAVE.]
Based on Hughes, Dictionary of Islam
© 2025 All Rights Reserved