Should we pray for the dead?

The plain teaching of the Bible is that deceased individuals do not know or do anything (Psa. 146:4; Ecc. 9:5, 10). They will remain asleep in their graves until the time of their resurrection (John 5:28-29; Dan. 12:2; Job 19:25-26; 14:12-14).

Our prayers should be on behalf of the living, not the dead. Prayers for the dead are meaningless. This custom has its origin in the false teaching that human beings possess immortal souls. This doctrine asserts that at death, a wicked person’s “immortal” soul is tormented for eternity in hell.

Friends and relatives pray that the “souls” of their departed loved ones be spared some of their suffering. But the Bible plainly teaches that souls can die (Ezek. 18:4, 20). Also see the last parts of Genesis 2:7, 17. There is no biblical basis for the immortal soul doctrine.

God will resurrect all who have died, giving those to whom salvation was never offered their opportunity for it. Most of humanity has not yet been given this opportunity. They will receive it at the end of the millennium (Rev. 20:5; Isa. 65:20). You may wish to request our free booklets The Truth About Hell, Is There Life After Death?, What Is Your Reward in the Next Life? and How Religion Deceives You About Your Incredible Future.