🕌 Islamic Perspective on Suicide

1. The Seriousness of the Sin

Suicide is regarded as a major sin in Islam, though it does not expel a person from the fold of Islam. It remains within the religion, but is deeply condemned

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever kills himself with something will be punished by that thing in the Hellfire…”
— meaning that those who commit suicide by poisoning, stabbing, or jumping will face the same means of their death in Hell , forever

2. Mercy and Final Judgment

Islamic scholars explain that eternal Hellfire is not necessarily guaranteed, even with that wording. Salvation and final outcome are ultimately in God’s hands.
Qurʾān 4:48 states Allāh forgives anything short of associating partners with Him. And a “ḥadīth in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim indicates that intercession and mercy may reach even those who committed suicide.”
So while suicide incurs severe consequences, some scholars affirm that God may forgive depending on His will and His mercy on Judgment Day

3. Funeral Rites: Washing, Praying, and Burial

Islamic funeral rituals—washing (ghusl), shrouding, janāzah prayer, and burial—are still performed for a Muslim who committed suicide, since it does not amount to apostasy
However, some scholars note that the Prophet ﷺ personally refrained from leading the funeral prayer for a suicide victim as a deterrent, while allowing others to perform it
The majority of scholars—including Imams Mālik, Abū Ḥanīfah, ash‑Shāfiʿī, and others—hold that it is obligatory to offer the janāzah for such individuals .

4. Wisdom and Context

Suicide is seen as unwise and counterproductive. As Shayḫ Ibn al‑ʿUthaymīn described, it is like someone escaping heat only to jump into fire. The act is seen as truly foolish and only brings further suffering
Committing suicide does not resolve trauma, anxiety, or trials—it often worsens the individual’s condition spiritually and eternally.

🧭 Conclusion

Islam firmly forbids suicide and describes it as a grievous sin. Yet it is not considered outright disbelief, and full funeral rites are allowed. While hadīth describe severe punishment, scholars emphasize that Allāh’s mercy and forgiveness remain open, so long as one remains within Islām. The community is encouraged to offer prayers and supplications for those who pass in such circumstances.

💬 Practical Guidance and Hope

If someone you know died by suicide, it is permissible and praiseworthy to make duʿāʾ (supplication) for them, asking Allah for mercy and forgiveness.

Encourage open discussion, professional help, and support for anyone experiencing mental health struggles.