from a substance whose reality Allah alone knows. For that reason Allah the Exalted said: “They ask you about the spirit. Say: ‘The spirit is of my Lord’s command, and you have been given but little knowledge.’ ”

4 - Whoever is present when death occurs and closes the deceased’s eyes should then pray for him. If he is able to voice the lofty supplications that the Messenger ﷺ made for Abū Salama, so much the better; if he does not know them, he may supplicate in whatever words he wishes.

5 - At such moments the angels say Āmīn to the prayers that are uttered, so the family of the deceased should implore only for what is good.