What Does A Muslim Cemetery Look Like?

Death in Islam is not the end, but a doorway to Akherat, the eternal afterlife. After death, an individual’s connection to the mortal plane is considered severed, and their presence is completely removed. This is why a Muslim cemetery is treated as a temporary place for the dead to rest.

A Muslim cemetery looks as spartan and barren as possible. The burial ground is minimalistic and unadorned. The cemetery is kept clean of debris or dust and gathering around a grave to perform any ritual or ceremony is forbidden.

A Muslim graveyard has features similar to those of other Abrahamic religions but with a few distinctive features. In this article, we’ll begin with the religious name of a Muslim cemetery and then briefly explore its key features.

What Is A Muslim Cemetery Called?

In Islam, the grave is called Qabr, and the graveyard is called Maqbara, the plural of which is Maqabir. Indo-Pak-influenced cultures also have a specific category of graves called Raula or Rauza.

Key Features of A Muslim Cemetery

An Islamic or Muslim cemetery evokes a striking sense of finality and somberness when entered. It carries a message that the dead have passed on and are out of the reach of the living. Here are 09 key features that create such an impression upon visitors.

1. Separate Graveyard: Muslims cannot be buried in non-Muslim graveyards. However, if there is a separate graveyard reserved for Muslims in a mixed cemetery, then it is permissible to bury a Muslim in it.
2. A Sacred Duty: Burying the dead is a collective obligation (Farḍ kifāyah) for all Muslims. Islamic law generally prefers a quick burial but does not expressly regard it as compulsory (Wājib).
3. Individual Graves: According to Shariah, every Muslim deserves separate graves, but some countries do permit communal burial due to lack of space.
4. A Temporary State: In Surah Al-Hajj Ayat 22: 7, it is stated, “And [that they may know] that the Hour is coming – no doubt about it – and that Allah will resurrect those in the graves.” Surah Ya-Sin Ayat 36: 51, also states, “And the Horn will be blown; and at once from the graves to their Lord they will hasten.” Islam does not consider the grave to be a permanent resting place, but where the dead await Kyeamat, Armageddon, and final judgment; and journey to the Akherat, the afterlife.
5. Modest Burial: A Muslim is always given a simple burial, entombed deep within the earth. The grave should be deep enough for an adult to stand within. This ensures that the body cannot be dug up or release fumes.
6. Facing the Kaaba: Every Muslim must be placed facing Qibla, or the direction of the Kaaba. It is also considered Sunnah, an act that follows the Prophet (SAW), to lay the body on its right.
7. Unmarked Graves: A Muslim tomb should not have any markings or headstones to commemorate the existence of the dead. The only indication of a Muslim grave is that it should be raised around 23.1 cm from the ground, but no extra dirt can be added. There can be no structures or walls around the grave, and such structures should be knocked down when spotted. However, some cemeteries allow headstones as there is evidence of the Prophet (SAW) placing a marker on `Uthman ibn Madh`un’s grave.
8. No Maintenance: Islam provides no clear directions regarding maintaining a cemetery. This is why many older cemeteries will not tend to the graves much and allow nature to erode them slowly. Some Muslim cemeteries maintain their graves, but not to the extent of Christian and Jewish Cemeteries.

Most Muslim cemeteries will resemble plain fields from afar, with only a gate or signboard to warn anyone about its presence. However, a select few may feature graves with small embellishments. As Islam has many sects, the law regarding burial can become quite murky in a few. To avoid confusion and find expert advice, you can rely on our experts at Bakerview Memorial Cemetery.

Bakerview Memorial Cemetery: Experts in Burial

Bakerview Memorial Cemetery is open to all Faiths, Cultures, and Religions, and is the affordable legacy building option in the Lower Mainland. We have entire sections dedicated to the various faiths and cultures of the greater Vancouver region, and therefore have a designated section for Muslim burials; Crescent. 

Our staff at Bakerview Memorial have a century’s worth of experience in burials and cemetery services. If you need to understand any aspect of Muslim burials, we’ve got the answer. So, come visit us if you are in Greater Vancouver, Aldergrove, Abbotsford, or Chilliwack. We’ve even got a Fall 2024 promotion on burial plots and niches if you need to find a gravesite.

Conclusion

A Muslim cemetery reflects a Muslim’s journey to eternal life and a harsh reminder that the life that we know is but a temporary one. It’s also meant to teach you the value of your deeds, as in death only these remain as your legacy. When you visit a Muslim’s grave, it will remind you that life is limited, and no wealth and no beauty can accompany you in death.