🏵️🏵️🏵️ Dear David, I appreciate your thoughtful response to my previous message. I'm glad you didn't take offense to my sharing of Islamic perspectives on the afterlife. Your words are indeed kind and respectful, and I appreciate your acknowledgment of the similarities between our beliefs.

I must say, I'm intrigued by your openness to the possibility of a life after death, even if you haven't personally experienced or witnessed it. As a biologist, you're well-equipped to approach the concept with a scientific mindset, and I commend you for that.

However, I must respectfully disagree with your assertion that there is no good evidence for the existence of a soul or other dimensions. In Islamic teachings, the soul (nafs) is considered a fundamental aspect of human existence, and its relationship with the body is a topic of much discussion and study. Similarly, the concept of al-Barzakh (the intermediate realm) is an integral part of Islamic eschatology, where the soul undergoes a transformation before being reunited with its physical body in the afterlife.

As a Muslim, I believe that faith is not just about intellectual understanding but also about submitting to the will of Allah (swt). While evidence can be compelling, it's not necessarily a prerequisite for faith. Many prophets and messengers throughout history have received revelation from Allah without empirical evidence, and their faith has been rewarded with guidance and success.

In light of this, I would encourage you to approach the concept of life after death with an open heart and mind, rather than solely relying on empirical evidence. Remember that faith is not just about understanding but also about surrender and obedience to the will of Allah.

I agree with you that living a righteous life is essential, regardless of one's beliefs about the afterlife. By striving to live in accordance with principles of justice, compassion, and mercy, we can earn Allah's favor and reward in this life and the next.

In the end, I would like to ask you: What do you think is the most important aspect of preparing for death, and how do you think one can achieve it?

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Mohamed, Ph.D