The loss of my friend has led me to a profound realization about legacy. Despite his stable health, a sudden illness abruptly cut short his journey on earth. In his last moments, he imparted a poignant truth to his loved ones: “You are my legacy.” These words have stirred deep reflection within me, prompting a thorough reassessment of the essence of legacy. This introspection naturally extends to an inquiry into the Islamic perspective on the matter.

From an Islamic perspective, legacy transcends material possessions. It encompasses the spiritual imprint we leave behind, interwoven with our connections and deeds. The Qur’an emphasizes the significance of righteous actions and the enduring impact they hold. As expressed in chapter 18 verse 46 of the Noble Qur’an): “Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one’s] hope.”

Words, often underestimated, carry profound weight in shaping legacies. The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) emphasized the power of speech in numerous of his teachings. He (Peace be upon Him) advised: “Speak good or remain silent”, emphasizing the importance of mindful communication. Our words possess the potential to uplift spirits, offer solace, or inflict lasting wounds, echoing through time and imprinting hearts and minds for generations to come.

Each interaction presents an opportunity to sow seeds of kindness, wisdom, and compassion. Surah (chapter) Ibrahim (14:24-25) reminds believers to speak with gentleness: “Have you not considered how Allah presents an example, [making] a good word like a good tree, whose root is firmly fixed and its branches [high] in the sky? It produces its fruit all the time, by permission of its Lord.”

Legacy transcends mere remembrance; it embodies a positive impact on humanity. It’s about fulfilling one’s purpose and striving for excellence in character. As Muslims, we acknowledge the brevity of life and the uncertainty of our time on Earth. Surah Al-Asr (103:1-3) encapsulates this reality: “By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.”

In the pursuit of legacy, we confront our mortality and the legacy we aspire to leave behind. Each day presents an opportunity to align our actions with our values, mend relationships, and spread goodness. Let us heed the wisdom of Islamic teachings, endeavoring to craft legacies that transcend the transient nature of this world. For in the end, our true legacy lies not in what we accumulate, but in how we touch the lives of others, echoing eternally through the corridors of time.