The Truth About Sealing Deeds 40 Days Before Death

Do a Person’s Deeds Get Sealed 40 Days Before Death? Understanding Islamic Teachings

Question: I’ve heard that a person’s deeds are sealed 40 days before their death. Is this true?

Answer: Whoever said that a person’s deeds are sealed 40 days before death has lied, as there is no evidence for this in the Qur’an or Hadith. Muslims should refrain from speaking without knowledge. In reality, a person’s deeds continue as long as they are alive. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Verily, deeds are judged by their endings” (Sahih Bukhari: 6607). Moreover, the Prophet informed us that a person’s deeds only stop after they die, except for three types of deeds: ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah), beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them (Sahih Muslim: 1631).

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail