Sheikh F. Fayas Hazrath – The Death on the Minbar

**The Death on the Minbar**

While delivering the *Khutbah* sermon from the pulpit in Akurana, Sheikh F. Fayas Hazrath responded to Allah’s call and departed for his eternal life.

Sheikh F. Fayas (Murshid) Hazrath hailed from the Dehianga area of Kandy. He served as the Chief Imam of the Asna Central Mosque in Akurana for 15 years. Continuing to reside in Akurana with his family, he accepted an invitation from the management of the Uggala Tower Jummah Mosque to deliver the *Khutbah* sermon yesterday, Friday, January 17, 2025.

At the mosque, he completed his Tamil sermon on the *Khutbah* with eloquence. During the second Arabic *Khutbah*, while reciting salutations upon the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he placed his hand on his chest and slightly leaned forward. Those nearby immediately rushed to assist him and carefully lowered him from the pulpit.

As they hurried to take him to the hospital by vehicle, he repeatedly recited the *Shahadah* (*Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah* – “I bear witness that there is no deity but Allah”) several times. In this state of constant remembrance, his soul departed.

This is indeed a death that serves as a profound lesson.

He lived as a noble scholar, dedicating his time and life to the service of Allah’s religion.
– In the blessed month of *Rajab*
– On the day of Friday
– During the time of *Jumu’ah*
– On the pulpit, speaking about the religion
– In a state of ablution (*Wudhu*)
– While in the throes of death (*Sakarat*),
– Reciting the *Shahadah*,

Sheikh F. Fayas (Murshid) Hazrath passed away as a blessed and fortunate Imam.

The sermon he delivered yesterday was described by the congregation of the Tower Jummah Mosque as deeply moving and focused on the themes of purity of heart and death, leaving the people in tears.

The life and death of a person are as meaningful and pleasing to Allah as the way they live to satisfy Him. This funeral stands as a prime example of that truth.

**O Allah, forgive his sins and grant him entry into Jannatul Firdaus (the highest paradise). Grant his family strength and patience.**