Here are some important duas and recitations recommended for a person nearing death:
Facing the Qiblah and Reciting Specific Surahs
It is advised to position the dying person so they face the Qiblah direction with the soles of their feet. In their presence, someone should recite Surah Yasin and Surah al-Saffat[5].
Reciting the Shahada
The dying person should be instructed to say the two creeds of Islam:
- “La ilaha illAllah” (There is no god worthy of worship except Allah). Saying this as their final words can ensure entry into Paradise[2][3].
Dua for Assistance During Death
The following duas can be recited to seek Allah’s assistance during the throes of death:
- “Allahumma a’inni ala ghamaratil-mawt” (O Allah, assist me upon the throes of death)[2].
- “Allahumma a’inni ala sakaratil-mawt” (O Allah, assist me upon the pains of death)[2].
Reciting Kalemate Farj
As advised by Imam Muhammad Baqir, the dying person should be made to recite:
- “La hawla wala quwwata illa billahi Al-’aliyyi Al-’asim” (There is neither might nor power except with Allah the All-high and All-great)[5].
Seeking Blessings and Forgiveness
The dying person can also repeat:
- “O Allah, please grant me blessings in death.”
- “O Allah, please bless us in the affair of meeting You.”[3].
Invocation of Allah’s Mercy
Reciting the following can be beneficial:
- “RABBIGH FIR WAR HAM WA ANTA KHAIRUR RAAHIMEEN” (O my Lord, forgive me and have mercy on me, and You are the best of those who show mercy)[1].
General Supplications
Other supplications that can be recited include:
- “We are Allah’s and to Him shall we be returned.” (This is often said during misfortunes and can be comforting for the dying person)[3].
- “Allahumma salli ‘Ala muhammadin wa-ali muhammad” (O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad)[3].
