The dead person is followed by three: His family, his wealth and his deeds. Then two of them come back: His family and his wealth, and there remain only his deeds

Arabic text

عن أنس رضي الله عنه مرفوعاً: «يَتْبَعُ الميتَ ثلاثةٌ: أهْلُه ومَالُه وعَمَلُه، فيرجع اثنان ويَبْقى واحد: يرجع أهْلُه ومَالُه، ويبقى عَمَلُه».

Translation

Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The dead person is followed by three: His family, his wealth and his deeds. Then two of them return: His family and his wealth, and there remain only his deeds."

Explanation

When someone dies, his funeral attenders follow him - his family follows him to his grave, and his wealth follow him - his slaves and servants that he owns; and his deeds follow him. Then two return; his family and property, whereas his deeds remain with him. If they are good deeds, then he will find goodness; if they are evil deeds, then he will find evil.

Topics

• Virtues and Manners
• Heart-Softeners and Sermons
• Condemning Love of the World