"When it is the Day of Resurrection, Death shall be brought as a mixed black-white ram. It shall be stood between Paradise and the Fire, and then slaughtered while they watch. If anyone were to die of joy, then surely the people of Paradise and the Fire, and then slaughtered while they watch. If anyone were to die of joy, then surely the people of Paradise would die, and if anyone were to die of grief, then surely the people of the Fire would die."
Hadith Text
"When it is the Day of Resurrection, Death shall be brought as a mixed black-white ram. It shall be stood between Paradise and the Fire, and then slaughtered while they watch. If anyone were to die of joy, then surely the people of Paradise would die, and if anyone were to die of grief, then surely the people of the Fire would die."
Source Reference
Book: Chapters on the description of Paradise
Author: Jami' at-Tirmidhi
Hadith: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 2558
Scholarly Commentary
This profound hadith demonstrates the absolute finality of death on the Day of Judgment. The presentation of Death as a tangible ram being slaughtered symbolizes the complete eradication of mortality. The black and white coloration represents the dual nature of death's impact - bringing despair to disbelievers and relief to believers.
The placement between Paradise and Hell signifies that death's termination occurs at the precise moment of eternal separation between the blessed and the damned. The dramatic slaughter before all creation serves as conclusive evidence that no further death shall occur thereafter - the inhabitants of Paradise will enjoy eternal bliss without fear of loss, while the people of the Fire will endure perpetual punishment without hope of annihilation.
The emotional extremes mentioned - joy for the people of Paradise and grief for the people of the Fire - highlight the ultimate consequences of one's earthly deeds. This spectacle serves as the final demarcation between the eternal abodes, making death itself a witness to divine justice.