Phenomenon Of Suicide During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Malaysia: An Overview of Hadith Perspective

Abstract

Recent suicide cases have shown a significant increase. Experts and authorities link this phenomenon to the financial pressures experienced by the community. The situation stems from the unfavourable economic conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic affecting nearly every country worldwide. Islam prohibits any form of action leading to suicide. Past studies have shown that this belief prevents the widespread occurrence of suicides among Muslims. This article will highlight the Hadith perspective in detail on the act of suicide. This will strengthen the existing beliefs among Muslim individuals, thus preventing them from falling into such issues. The method used is qualitative content analysis. Hadiths regarding suicide will be gathered and analysed. The meanings conveyed will be extracted and arranged. The research findings illustrate the following: 1. Suicide is a major sin, 2. Suicide is included in the sin of killing a human being, 3. Perpetrators will be punished according to their method of suicide, 4. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not pray over their bodies but instructed others to do so, 5. Suicide does not lead to disbelief, and 6. Islam prohibits hoping for death.