I am writing this article in response to an email that I received from Mumbai, India. You can read the email first by scrolling at the bottom of this article.

The Truth About Near Death Visions 

Assalamu Alaikum Shirin,

Thank you for your heartfelt email and congratulations on your shahadat. It’s inspiring to see your commitment to Islam and your sincere pursuit of knowledge. I appreciate your curiosity and understand your concern regarding the near-death experience (NDE) phenomenon, especially given the differences between what many report and the teachings we find in the Quran.

Many people who undergo near-death experiences describe seeing a tunnel, a bright light at the end, and even encountering loved ones who seem to be waiting for them. This recurring pattern across different cultures and religions might make it seem as if there is a universal spiritual journey occurring at the moment of death. However, it is important to consider the nature of our human brains.

Uniform Brain Function and NDEs

Our brains share similar structures and functions across humanity. When the brain experiences extreme stress—such as oxygen deprivation or a sudden shutdown—it may trigger specific responses. Think of it like a computer powering down: the process is governed by the same mechanics in every device. Similarly, the human brain, when confronted with near-death conditions, can produce uniform sensations such as the tunnel effect or a bright light. This isn’t to undermine the profound nature of these experiences but to highlight that they are rooted in our physical biology rather than being a glimpse into the spiritual realm.

This uniformity of experiences does not necessarily validate them as glimpses of the Ākhirah (Hereafter). Instead, neuroscience suggests these phenomena arise from the brain’s response to trauma, oxygen deprivation (anoxia), and the release of neurotransmitters like DMT or endorphins as the body shuts down.

The “Computer Shutdown” Analogy: Just as computers follow a fixed process when powered off (e.g., screen dimming, system checks), human brains may enter a “default mode” during crisis. The visual cortex, for instance, can misfire under stress, creating tunnel-like patterns, while the limbic system (linked to memory/emotion) may generate comforting images of loved ones.

Islamic Perspective vs. Subjective Experience

From the Islamic perspective, as you rightly mentioned, the Quran explains that after death, the soul enters Barzakh—a state where it remains until the Day of Resurrection. The detail of which I have already clearly mention in my article What Is Death & What Happens After It? The experiences reported during near-death states are not the soul’s actual journey into the afterlife but are likely reflections of the brain’s last functional processes.

In other words, while near-death experiences are real and deeply moving to those who experience them, they represent the brain’s mechanism under extreme conditions—a “thinking-off” process common to all human beings. This natural shutdown creates similar sensory outputs, which many interpret through the lens of their personal and cultural beliefs.

Barzakh Is Beyond Human Perception

The afterlife is a ghayb (unseen) reality. NDEs, by contrast, are temporary, worldly experiences filtered through a dying brain—not a true passage into the Hereafter.

Tests or Illusions

Allah tests believers’ resolve through ambiguous experiences. The Prophet ﷺ warned that Shaytan may exploit vulnerability during death to mislead. True believers are taught to focus on the Shahadah, not hallucinations.

Scholarly Caution on NDEs

Death is a definitive separation of body and soul, not a reversible event. Even if a person is revived, their experience reflects clinical death (heart/brain stoppage), not true entry into Barzakh. The Quranic account of true death is unambiguous:

Until, when death comes to one of them, he says, “My Lord, send me back”

That I might do righteousness in that which I left behind. No! It is only a word he is saying; 

and behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.

(23:99-100)

I hope this explanation helps clarify your doubts. Science and faith can often address different aspects of the same phenomenon. While neuroscience provides insight into the workings of the brain at death, Islamic teachings guide us regarding the reality of the soul and the hereafter. Both perspectives, when understood correctly, need not be in conflict.

Thank you again for reaching out and for your kind words about my work. I pray that Allah continues to guide you on your journey and grant you clarity and strength in your faith.

Email From Mumbai India

Hi

This is shirin

I took my shahadat and revert to islam last year..since then i am following islam/praying salat and trying best to please allah

I was born into bramhan hindu family

And i was deceived by new age believes for 4/5 years..

Since i reverted i have received all anwers for almost every thing in quranpak..how ever i am curious or say confuse about one theory which is very populer on YT called near death experience..i am not doing kuffar..i am sorry i am just curious and wants to know the answer

From a schooler like you..

every person who experience near death incident they saw some black tunnal and light in the end of tunnel..often times they see their loved ones to receive them on the other side or they see some bright white light..

My mum also had encountered this similar experience in her major sergery few years back

My question is why and how come these all people seeing similer vision while experienceing something like near death
Where we believe in islam
Believers soul goes to berzaq and non believers soul goes to sijjin..
And our passed people dont come receive our soul
Munqeer nakir comes to take soul..

Can you please debunk near death experience or share your valueable opinion on this by replying this mail? I will be glad if you do so..

Thanks in advance
By the way
I loved your big crunch theory post
Its amezing and knowledgeable post
Best wishes for your work for future..

Shirin
(Mumbai) India