A tribute and gentle guide by Dr Rahim Said
“To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return.” — Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:156
Haji Abdul Karim Yacob was born in 1923, in a time of simplicity, quiet strength, and unshakable faith. At 102, and surrounded by those who love him, he prepares to return to the One he has worshipped his entire life.
In these recent days, we’ve observed a sight both tender and mysterious: he lifts his arms gently toward the ceiling, as if reaching for something — or someone — beyond our view.
Some of us wonder: Is he in pain? Is he aware? What is he reaching for?
Let us find peace in this truth — what we are witnessing is not fear, but perhaps a soul already glimpsing the next world.
What It May Mean
Doctors call it “reaching behaviour” — a common gesture in the final hours of life. It may be linked to changing oxygen levels or the body’s natural response to the approach of death.
But for Abdul Karim, it is also the reflection of a man whose every day was shaped by prayer, humility, and surrender to Allah.
He never missed his five daily prayers. Even in weakness, he sought ablution. His zikir never ceased. His heart was always turned toward his Creator.
Now, perhaps, his hands are doing the same — reaching not in distress, but in readiness.
A Reunion Awaits
Abdul Karim lost his beloved wife in September 2024. Their bond was not just of this world.
We believe in what Allah has promised — that for the righteous, there is reunion, there is mercy, there is Jannah.
“The ones whose lives the angels take while they are in a pious state, saying to them, ‘Peace be upon you. Enter Paradise for what you used to do.’” — Surah An-Nahl, 16:32
Perhaps his soul already senses her near. Perhaps he is being welcomed, not taken.
For the Family: Be Still, Be Kind
Now is the time for presence, not panic.
Let us gather quietly. Hold his hand. Read the Qur’an. Whisper the Shahadah. Let him hear the names of Allah that he had recited all his life.
There is nothing more to fix. Only love to give.
“Indeed, those who have said, ‘Our Lord is Allah’ and then remained steadfast — the angels will descend upon them, [saying], ‘Do not fear and do not grieve but receive good tidings of Paradise, which you were promised.’” — Surah Fussilat, 41:30
A Final Note
If you see him raise his arms again, do not be afraid. Do not rush to stop him. Just watch with love.
For in that moment, you are witnessing a sacred transition — the closing of a chapter written with devotion and dignity.
When the final breath comes, may it be gentle. May the gates of Jannah open wide. May he be reunited with his wife, and may the angels say, “Peace be upon you — you have done well.”
Until then, let love be louder than sorrow. Let prayer be the language of our hearts. Let us honour Haji Abdul Karim — not only by how he lived, but by how we choose to walk with him now.
- The essay on the late Haji Abdul Karim Yacob, father-in-law of Dr Rahim Said, was written before his passing at 5:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
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