Q. Are Shuhada' alive or dead? (M. Tahir, BRIGHTON)

A. The Martyrs (Shuhada), those who are killed in the path of Allah, Allah Taa'la says in the Holy Qur'an: "And say not those who have been slain in the path of Allah to be dead for they are alive and you do not know." (Part 2, Ruku 3) Since it is evident from the Holy Qur'an that the Martyrs are alive, then it follows that the Ambiya (Alayhimus salaam), whose status are much greater than that of the Martyrs, are also alive. (Fathul Baari Sharah Bukhaari) Allah Taa'la states in the Holy Qur'an: "And say not of those who are slain in the Way of Allah 'They are dead'. Nay, they are living, though you perceive it not". (Al-Baqarah: 154) "Think not of those who are slain in Allah's way as dead. Nay, they are alive, finding their sustenance in the Presence of their Lord." (Al-Imraan:169) the above two Ayahs were revealed after the Battle of Badr. (ALLAH TAA'LA IS ALL KNOWING!)