Why Do Some Good People Die Early?

This question is a profound and often painful one that has occupied the minds of many people throughout history. Witnessing the loss of loved ones, especially those known for their goodness and righteousness, whose presence is believed to bring more blessings and benefits to society, is an immensely difficult test of one's faith and patience. The Holy Quran, as the divine word and the primary source of guidance for humanity, does not directly answer the specific question of "Why did a particular good person die early?" This is because the timing of every human being's death is predetermined and is part of Allah's unseen knowledge, which lies beyond the limited scope of human comprehension and perception. However, the Quran does articulate general principles and truths that can help us understand this matter and come to terms with it, offering a deeper, more monotheistic perspective on life and death. One of the most fundamental Quranic concepts in this regard is "Ajal" (appointed term). The Quran clearly states that for every nation and every individual, a specific "ajal" (a definite term of life) has been set. This appointed time neither comes sooner nor is it delayed. Allah reminds us of this truth in numerous verses, including Surah Al-A'raf, verse 34, where He says: "And for every nation is a [specified] term. So when their time has come, they will not remain thereafter for an hour, nor will they precede [it]." This verse, along with similar ones, demonstrates that the timing of every human's death is entirely in the hands of Allah, and no one, neither good nor bad, can overcome or alter this divine decree. Therefore, when we speak of "premature death," this is merely our human perception and interpretation based on our criteria and expectations for longevity; whereas, from a divine perspective, it was precisely the predetermined "ajal" for that individual. The Quran also describes worldly life as a place of trial and testing (ibtila'). Allah says in Surah Al-Mulk, verse 2: "He who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving." Based on this, death is also part of this testing process. The death of good individuals can be a test for their survivors; a test of patience, gratitude, submission to divine decree, and a reminder of the fleeting nature of this world. This experience can lead to awakening, repentance, or an increase in faith in others. Furthermore, the wisdom behind the early death of a good person might be to protect them from sins and errors they might have committed if their life had been prolonged, or to shield them from trials and temptations they might not have been able to withstand. In this way, Allah may call His righteous servant back to Him at the peak of their purity and piety, so that a more complete and exalted reward awaits them. Another point to consider is that in the Quran's view, human worth and greatness are not measured by the length of one's life, but by the quality of life, the quantity of good deeds, and devotion to Allah. A short but fruitful life, full of servitude and good deeds, is far more valuable than a long life spent in heedlessness and disobedience. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The best of people is one whose life is long and whose deeds are good." However, this does not negate the value of a short life accompanied by goodness. Many saints and great figures in religious history, despite short lives, have had profound impacts on the world, and their names shine eternally in history. Therefore, perhaps for some of His special servants, divine wisdom dictates that they return to their Lord after fulfilling a specific mission or reaching a certain level of perfection, even if their life span is short, to ensure they meet their reward in an optimal state. It is also important to note that the Islamic worldview does not consider death as an end, but rather a bridge to eternal, everlasting life in the Hereafter. For a believer, death is the beginning of a journey towards meeting the Beloved and receiving the reward for their righteous deeds. In Surah Ya-Sin, verse 68, we read: "And he whom We grant long life We reverse in creation; so will they not understand?" This verse alludes to the weaknesses and difficulties of old age. Perhaps for some righteous individuals, divine wisdom dictates that they return to their Lord before reaching an age of frailty and weakness, and while still at the height of their strength and spirituality, so that they may be spared the hardships of old age and appear before the divine presence with a more brilliant record. Ultimately, the answer to this question lies deep within the concept of "Tawakkul" (trust in Allah) and "Taslim" (submission) to His divine will. With our limited knowledge, we can never fully comprehend all the mysteries of creation and the hidden wisdoms behind divine decrees. What is incumbent upon us is faith in the oneness of Allah, His justice and wisdom, and acceptance of whatever comes from Him, whether pleasant or unpleasant. Islamic traditions also state that for a believer, death is good; if the believer is righteous, their death leads to their attaining otherworldly rewards, and if they are sinful, their death prevents them from continuing in sin and increasing their punishment (though this tradition refers to death in general, not solely early death). Therefore, when good people pass away, we should reflect that they have returned to their Lord, and a great reward awaits them. This event reminds us that worldly life is transient, and what remains are good deeds and the remembrance of Allah. We must utilize the opportunities of life, perform righteous deeds, and be prepared for the eternal journey, as no one knows the exact time of their "ajal." Submitting to divine decree and understanding the truth that Allah Almighty always desires what is best for His servants, even if it appears difficult for us, brings peace to hearts.