Death, A Personal Earthquake

Death is undoubtedly the biggest issue of every individual. It is like a personal earthquake. Just as no one has the power to stop an earthquake, no person has the power to stop death. An earthquake comes without any prior announcement and without seeking permission. So too is the case with death. In the face of an earthquake, a human being is totally helpless. So also in the face of death.

Remembrance of death is negation of the ego. Ego is a basic attribute of a human being. But this very same ego becomes the cause of all evil. On account of ego a person becomes self-centred. It makes him feel self-important. Self-centredness and self-importance are the cause of all negative qualities, such as arrogance, revenge, pride and envy.

Remembrance of death can purify us of the negative emotions that are generated by a bloated ego. If we are constantly aware that we are going to die and that we have to then face our Maker and face the consequences of our actions, we will try to desist from evil. Our sense of self-importance will be replaced with deep humility. We will be led to acknowledge God and recognize our total dependence on Him.