In the hereafter human beings will either enjoy eternal bliss in Jannah (Paradise) or damnation and punishment in Jahannam (Hell). “Allah created the heavens and the earth with reason, so that every soul may be requited for what it has earned, and they will not be wronged.” (Qur’an 45:22).
Barzakh
Once dead, the human soul lives on and is aware of its surroundings, such as when burials and funerals take place. Following the burial, the human soul will detach itself from the body and live in Barzakh. It is a realm kept by Allah between this world and the next where the soul goes: “And ahead of them is a barrier until the day they will be resurrected.” (Qur’an 23:100)
While in Barzakh, humans will be questioned and held accountable for the deeds they performed when alive in the earthly world. Shi’a Muslims believe one will be asked who their Lord, book, Prophet and Imam are. It is almost a mini-Heaven or mini-Hell depending on the person’s responses. Good deeds will bring light to the grave of the deceased, while bad deeds result in fear and torment. They will live in this state until the Day of Judgement.
Resurrection
Given that our life ends in death, a life in the hereafter requires a concept of resurrection from the dead to a new form of life. “From God we came and to God we will return.” (Qur’an 2:156). Muslims believe that if this were not so, then our life would have no purpose.
Day of Judgement
On the Day of Judgement, human beings will be held accountable for their actions in relation to Allah (i.e. the duties a Muslim must perform in devotion to Allah) and in relation to humans (i.e. how a Muslim treated others).
Allah will be faithful in granting the rewards that have been promised. Allah is however free to show mercy and waive the punishments that have been threatened. Allah created all human beings with the desire they should live in Paradise; it is only human sin and rebellion that may lead some to forfeit that goal and to suffer the pain of separation from Allah in Hell.
Intercession
One way for Allah to show His mercy is through Shafa’a (intercession). Shi’a Muslims believe that Allah will allow people closest to Him to intercede for others. The Qur’an says: “Intercession will not avail that day except from him whom the All-beneficent allows and approves of his word.” (Qur’an 20:109) Shi’as believe that those given the privilege of intercession include Prophet Muhammad and his family which include the Imams. They will be allowed to request for Allah to allow salvation for whoever they please.