Meaning of Before the Devil knows youre dead?

Question

Whats the meaning of the Irish blessing "May you be in heaven half an hour before the Devil knows you're dead?" Is it a joke to tease the person that they were sinful? Just asking because I saw the movie and couldnt connect the title. BTW the movie was not good..dont watch it.

Answer 1

Not a joke,  has to do with "time", "speed" it's a blessing for God's sake, not saying you were sinful.  Being in heaven way ahead of the devil even knowing you're dead.

Answer 2

If you are a bit of a messer and you aren't the holiest sort then the blessing means that hopefully you will get into heaven on the sly but really you should be going to h**l with the way you have lead your life.

Basically  if the Devil doesn't notice you are dead then you might get away with it!