Anas reported God’s messenger as saying, “When a man is placed in his grave and his friends leave him, he hears the beat of their sandals. Then two angels come to him and, having made him sit up, they say, ‘What was your opinion of this man, of Muhammad?’ The believer replies, ‘I testify that he is God’s servant and messenger.’ He is then told to look at his abode in hell for which God has substituted for him an abode in paradise, and he sees them both. The hypocrite and infidel are asked, ‘What was your opinion of this man?’ and reply, ‘I do not know; I held the opinion others held.’ They will retort, ‘You neither knew nor did you follow [the believers].’ He will then be given a blow with iron hammers and will utter a shout which will be heard by all who are near him, with the exception of men and jinn.” (Bukhari and Muslim. The wording is Bukhari’s.)
The Trial of the Grave
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim describes the profound spiritual reality that occurs immediately after burial, known as 'fitnat al-qabr' (the trial of the grave). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) informs us that the deceased remains conscious and aware of their surroundings, hearing the departing footsteps of those who buried them.
The Two Questioning Angels
Two angels named Munkar and Nakir come to examine the deceased's faith. They restore the person's spiritual faculties, enabling them to sit and respond to fundamental questions about divine guidance. The primary inquiry concerns one's belief about Prophet Muhammad - "What did you say about this man?" - testing the foundation of Islamic creed.
The Believer's Response
The true believer affirms the testimony of faith: "I testify that he is God's servant and messenger." This correct belief results in divine mercy - the believer is shown their designated place in Hellfire, but Almighty Allah replaces it with a dwelling in Paradise. This demonstrates Allah's infinite compassion toward those who maintained correct belief.
The Disbeliever's Fate
The hypocrite and unbeliever respond with evasion: "I don't know; I merely followed what people said." This reflects their spiritual negligence in worldly life. The angels condemn this aimless following without knowledge or conviction. The consequence is a severe punishment with iron hammers, producing a terrifying cry audible to all creation except mankind and jinn, as a divine protection from overwhelming fear.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars emphasize this hadith establishes the reality of the grave's punishment and reward. It underscores the critical importance of correct belief ('aqidah) and following the Prophet with knowledge and conviction. The narration serves as a powerful reminder of accountability after death and the necessity of preparing for this inevitable questioning through sincere faith and righteous deeds.