In Islam, the funeral rites are of profound significance, embodying respect for the deceased and providing solace to the grieving family. The process is steeped in tradition, derived from the Quran and the Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Here, we will explore the Islamic funeral practices: rules and regulations for a Muslim funeral, alongside a step-by-step guide to the burial and funeral prayer.
The Islamic Perspective on Death
Death in Islam is viewed as a transition from this life to the next. It is a journey to the eternal life, where one’s deeds will be judged. The Quran states:
“Every soul will taste death. And you will be paid your wages in full on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is removed from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception.”
(Quran 3:185)
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also emphasized the transient nature of worldly life:
“Be in this world as though you were a stranger or a wayfarer.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
Islamic Funeral practices: Rules and Regulations
1. Immediate Burial: Islamic law requires the body to be buried as soon as possible after death. Delaying the burial without a valid reason is discouraged.
2. Ritual Washing (Ghusl): The body of the deceased is washed thoroughly in a specific manner. This ritual purification is usually performed by family members of the same gender.
3. Shrouding (Kafan): After washing, the body is wrapped in a simple white shroud. For men, the shroud consists of three pieces of cloth; for women, it is five.
4. Funeral Prayer (Salat al-Janazah): A collective prayer is held to seek mercy for the deceased. This prayer is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah), meaning if some members of the community perform it, the obligation is lifted from others.
5. Burial: The body is placed in a grave, lying on its right side, facing the Qibla (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca). The grave should be deep enough to protect the body from animals and natural elements.
Step-by-Step Guide to an Islamic Burial and Funeral Prayer
Step 1: Announcement of Death Upon death, it is customary to announce the passing of the individual to the community, ensuring a respectful notification.
Step 2: Ritual Washing (Ghusl)
- The body is placed on a raised platform.
- Washing starts with the private parts, using gloves and covering them afterward.
- The body is washed three times, starting from the head, then the right side, followed by the left side.
- If necessary, more washes can be done in odd numbers (5, 7, etc.).
Differences Between Washing Male and Female Bodies:
- For a male, the washing is typically performed by male family members or those permitted to see him in life, such as his wife.
- For a female, the washing is performed by female family members or those permitted to see her in life, such as her husband.
- In both cases, if relatives of the same gender are not available, qualified individuals from the community can perform the washing while maintaining the required modesty and respect.
Step 3: Shrouding (Kafan)
- The shroud is prepared by cutting the cloth into the required pieces.
- The body is laid on the shroud, and the cloth is folded over, ensuring modesty and respect.
- The ends are tied with strips of cloth to keep the shroud secure.
Differences in Shrouding Male and Female Bodies:
For men: The shroud consists of three pieces of cloth:
- Izar – A piece that covers from the head to the feet.
- Qamees – A piece that covers from the shoulders to the feet.
- Lifafah – A larger piece that covers the entire body.
For women: The shroud consists of five pieces of cloth:
- Izar – A piece that covers from the head to the feet.
- Qamees – A piece that covers from the shoulders to the feet.
- Lifafah – A larger piece that covers the entire body.
- Khimar – A piece that covers the head and neck.
- Sinaband – A piece that covers the chest.
Step 4: Funeral Prayer (Salat al-Janazah)
- The body is brought to the mosque or an appropriate prayer area.
- The congregation stands in rows, with the Imam leading the prayer.
- The prayer consists of four Takbirs (saying “Allahu Akbar”):
- After the first Takbir, Al-Fatiha (the opening chapter of the Quran) is recited.
- After the second Takbir, prayers for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are recited.
- After the third Takbir, supplications for the deceased and all Muslims are made.
- After the fourth Takbir, the prayer concludes with a general supplication.
Step 5: Burial
- The body is transported to the cemetery.
- The grave is prepared, typically with a niche on the side (Lahd) or a trench (Shaqq) depending on local customs.
- The body is gently placed in the grave, on its right side, facing the Qibla.
- Soil is placed over the body, saying “From the earth we created you, and into it, we shall return you, and from it, we shall bring you forth once more.”(Quran 20:55)
- A final supplication is made for the deceased.
Conclusion
Islamic funeral practices reflect a deep respect for the deceased and a reminder of the transient nature of life. By following these rituals, Muslims honor their loved ones and fulfill religious obligations, seeking peace and mercy for the departed soul. May Allah grant us all a good end and forgive our shortcomings. Ameen.

Published: July 22, 2024