ANT KAL,means the few moments before a person\’s death. A person feeling the approach (if death thinks of many things, his wife, children, wealth and home which he will leave shortly and then begins to worry about them and after a while he is no more. Bhagat Trilochan realised the importance of these moments preceding death and advised his associates that this short time is better utilised by remembrance of God or meditation of the Holy Name.
References :
1. Encyclopedia of Sikh Religion and Culture, R.C.Dogra and Dr.G.S. Mansukhani 1995
In Hindu mythology, Ant Kal (the final moments before death) holds profound spiritual significance. It is believed that the thoughts and actions during this crucial time influence the soul’s journey after death, determining its next existence in the cycle of birth and rebirth (samsara). This belief emphasizes the importance of dying with a peaceful and focused mind, ideally centered on the divine.
The Bhagavad Gita sheds light on this concept, particularly in Chapter 8, where Lord Krishna advises Arjuna that remembering the divine during Ant Kal can lead to liberation (moksha). It teaches that a person who dies while meditating on the divine attains unity with the Creator and escapes the cycle of reincarnation. Conversely, a mind engrossed in worldly desires or attachments at the time of death is believed to lead the soul into lower life forms or continued rebirth.
This idea stresses the importance of living a life of devotion, righteousness (dharma), and mindfulness, so that the mind naturally gravitates toward the divine in Ant Kal. Practices like meditation, chanting sacred names (Naam Japa), and selfless service are encouraged to prepare the soul for this inevitable moment.
In essence, Ant Kal in Hindu mythology serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of cultivating spiritual awareness throughout one’s lifetime. This preparation ensures that the soul transitions peacefully and moves closer to ultimate liberation. Let me know if you’d like to explore this further!
