Sokushinbutsu: A Forbidden Practice in Islam

How the Buddhist practice of self-mummification is incompatible with the Islamic teachings on life and death

Sokushinbutsu is a practice that was carried out by a small number of Buddhist monks in Japan between the 11th and 19th centuries. The monks believed that by mummifying themselves in this way, they could achieve enlightenment and become a living Buddha. In the light of the Quran and Sunnah, this event can be described as a form of self-harm and suicide, which are forbidden in Islam. 

Allah says in the Quran: 

وَلَا تَقْتُلُوا أَنْفُسَكُمْ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ بِكُمْ رَحِيمًا

"And do not kill yourselves. Surely, Allah is Most Merciful to you." (4:29) 

And the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 

"He who kills himself with anything in this world will be tortured with it on the Day of Resurrection." (Sahih Bukhari 5778)

Therefore, the event of Sokushinbutsu is contrary to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the sanctity of life and the importance of preserving one's health and well-being. Islam does not approve of any form of self-inflicted suffering or torture, as it is a sign of despair and ingratitude to Allah. Rather, Islam teaches that one can achieve enlightenment and closeness to Allah by following His guidance, obeying His commands, and performing good deeds. Allah says in the Quran: 

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ كَانَتْ لَهُمْ جَنَّٰتُ ٱلْفِرْدَوْسِ نُزُلًا

"Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds - they will have the Gardens of Paradise as a lodging." (18:107)