Some scholars stated that if a change occurs in the religion, wishing for death is praiseworthy. Ibn Hajar mentioned that this occurred with 'Umar ibn 'Abd al-'Aziz.

The questioner : What the scholars mention is that if a change occurs in the religion, this is the praiseworthy wishing for death. Ibn Hajar, al-Hafiz, and al-Nawawi mentioned that this occurred with 'Umar ibn al-'Aziz and others, who wished for death when the religion weakened.

The Shaykh : No, this is not correct, because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded patience regarding the weakening of the religion. When the Companions came to him and complained about the harm they were suffering, he ordered them to be patient. Yes, if a person wishes to die without being tested, this is correct. And if what is narrated about 'Umar ibn 'Abd al-'Aziz is authentic, it is to be understood in that sense, not as wishing for death, because wishing for death in such a situation may contain an element of objection to the divine decree. Rather, the person should be patient, seek reward, and know that if he is harmed for the sake of Allah, he will thereby attain elevation in degrees and the expiation of his sins. With seeking reward, his reward increases. As for wishing for death, this is not correct.

The questioner : ...

The Shaykh : That is, to be dead before this trial. His intention was not to hasten his death, but to die before these trials.