and its importance. The trial of the False Messiah is explicitly mentioned, even though it is among the trials of life; yet it is a trial connected with death because it occurs near the time of death. It was singled out for mention because it is among the most severe trials. For when a person dies and bids farewell to deeds, he is heading either toward happiness or toward misery. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “One of you may perform the deeds of the people of Paradise until only an arm’s length remains between him and it; then what has been decreed overtakes him, and he performs the deeds of the people of the Fire.” (1) Thus, the trial is immense.

At that moment, Satan is at his most eager to lead the children of Adam astray. The one protected is he whom Allah protects. Satan comes to a person in that critical state, the reality of which can only be imagined by one who has experienced it. Allah the Exalted says:

“No! When it reaches the collarbones, and it is said, ‘Who can cure him?’ and he realizes that it is the parting, and leg is entwined with leg—to your Lord that Day is the driving.” [Surah al-Qiyamah]

It is an immensely critical state: a person is weak in spirit, weak in resolve, weak in strength, and tight-chested. Satan then comes to mislead him, for this is Satan’s opportunity for gain. Indeed, as the scholars have said, he may present Judaism, Christianity, and Islam to a person in the form of his parents, offering him these religions and directing him toward Judaism or Christianity. Satan can assume the form of anyone except the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him. These are among the greatest trials.

Yet, all praise is due to Allah, this does not happen to everyone, as Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy on him, stated. Even if Satan is unable to reach this extent with a person, he is nevertheless to be feared.