What is an Islamic funeral Prayer?
An Islamic funeral prayer, known as Salat al-Janazah, is a simple yet deeply spiritual ceremony performed for the deceased. It is a reminder of the temporary nature of life and the journey to the afterlife, which begins after death. The prayer reflects the Islamic belief in accountability before Allah (SWT) and serves as an opportunity for the community to ask for Allah Almighty’s mercy and forgiveness for the deceased.
The funeral prayer is a communal act, often performed in congregation. It seeks Allah’s (SWT) forgiveness for the departed soul and invokes blessings upon them. Its simplicity and dignity align with Islamic teachings about the temporary nature of life and the importance of humility before Allah (SWT).
Muslim’s Belief about Death
In Islam, the concept of death is closely linked to belief in the afterlife (Akhirah). We see life as a test, with the ultimate goal of reaching eternal bliss in paradise. Islam views death as a reminder of human mortality and the temporary nature of worldly life.
We believe that all souls return to Allah (SWT), and death marks the moment when a person is reunited with the Creator. This belief in the afterlife emphasizes the importance of living a righteous life and preparing for death. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran;
Preparation for the Deceased in Islamic Funeral
In Islam, preparing the deceased is a holy responsibility. Family members or close friends perform the ritual washing (Ghusl) and shrouding (Kafan) of the body, following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). They carry out this process with great care and reverence. As a result, they ensure that the deceased is treated with dignity and respect before their journey to the afterlife. Below is a detailed breakdown of the process:
Kafan and Ghusl Materials
The materials needed for washing and shrouding differ slightly between males and females. These items ensure modesty and attach to Islamic values of simplicity.
For Males:
Kafan: The shroud consists of three pieces of white cloth:
- Izar: A large sheet that covers the body from head to feet.
- Qamees: A long shirt that covers the body from the neck to the feet.
- Lifafah: An additional sheet that wraps the body entirely.
Other Materials: Camphor for fragrance and Sidr (lote leaves) for washing water, as well as cotton to cover any wounds.
For Females:
Kafan: The Kafan (shroud) for females consists of five pieces of white cloth to ensure modesty and full coverage:
- Izar: A large sheet to wrap the entire body.
- Qamees: A long shirt-like covering.
- Khimar: A headscarf.
- Sinaband: A chest covering.
- Lifafah: A large outer sheet.
Other Materials: Camphor and Sidr, as well as cotton to ensure modesty and cleanliness.
The white shroud symbolizes purity and equality. Consequently, it reflects the belief that Allah (SWT) lays all Muslims, regardless of their worldly status, to rest in the same simple garments. The simple white shroud underscores the temporary nature of earthly life and the importance of focusing on spiritual matters.
People Who Can and Should Perform Ghusl
Trustworthy individuals who are knowledgeable about Islamic funeral practices must carry out the Ghusl (washing of the deceased). Therefore, it is essential that those performing the Ghusl follow these practices correctly. The washers must be of the same gender as the deceased, with the exception of a spouse.
For a Male Deceased: The closest male relatives, such as the father, sons, or brothers, are given the responsibility of performing the Ghusl. If they are unavailable, other trusted male relatives or members of the Muslim community may step in.
For a Female Deceased: The closest female relatives, such as the mother, sisters, or daughters, should perform the washing. If they are unavailable, other trusted female Muslims in the community can assist.
In the case of children, either parent may wash their child.
Steps of Washing (Ghusl)
The washing process is holy and should be done with care, modesty, and respect.
- Private Area: The body should be washed in a private, clean space away from public view. This can be done at a mosque, a designated funeral area, or even at home.
- Intention (Niyyah): The person performing the Ghusl must have the intention of washing the body for the sake of Allah (SWT).
- Washing: First, the private parts should be cleaned using gloves. Then, the body should be washed three times, starting from the right side.
- Wudu (Ablution): Similar to Wudu, the body undergoes a ritual washing that includes washing the face, arms, and feet.
- Fragrance: The final rinse uses water scented with camphor or another fragrance.
Shrouding of the Body (Kafan)
After the Ghusl (washing), the body is shrouded in Kafan with great care and respect. This process involves wrapping the body in simple white clothes, ensuring dignity and modesty as the deceased is prepared for the afterlife.
Steps of Shrouding
Preparation of the Kafan: The pieces of the shroud are laid out in the order they will be wrapped around the body. For men, three pieces are used, while for women, five pieces ensure complete coverage.
Wrapping the Body:
- The body is first placed onto the Izar (the large sheet).
- For men, the Qamees (a long shirt) is then placed over the body, covering it from the neck to the feet.
- For women, after the Qamees, the Khimar (head covering) is placed over the head, and the Sinaband (chest wrap) is used to cover the chest area.
- The shrouding itself is different for individuals.
Final Wrapping: The Lifafah (large outer sheet) is then wrapped around the entire body. The ends of the shroud are tied at the head and feet, ensuring that the body is fully enclosed and secure.
Application of Fragrance: Before the final shroud is wrapped, pieces of cotton soaked in camphor may be placed near the body, especially at the forehead, nose, hands, knees, and feet. The shrouded body is now ready for the Janazah prayer and burial.
The process of preparing the deceased in Islam reflects the deep respect for life and death. They perform every step, from washing to shrouding, to ensure the deceased’s dignity. Additionally, they prepare the deceased for their journey to the afterlife.
Janazah Prayer (Salat al-Janazah)
Islamic funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is an essential part of the Islamic funeral rites. This funeral prayer is performed in congregation and is distinct from other prayers because it is recited silently, without bowing or prostrating. The prayer serves as a collective plea to Allah (SWT) for mercy on the deceased and for all Muslims.
Salat al-Janazah emphasizes the importance of community support during times of loss, as the congregation gathers to seek forgiveness and blessings for the deceased. It reflects the communal nature of Islamic practice, where individuals come together to pray for the well-being of their fellow believers in the hereafter.
To learn more, visit this link: Janazah Prayer: Janazah Dua, Steps, and Essential Practices.
Burial in Islam
In Islam, the burial of the deceased follows a simple and respectful process that aligns with Islamic principles. After performing the Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer), the body is taken to the burial site. The grave is dug to a depth of about 5 to 6 feet and long enough to accommodate the body. The deceased is placed on their right side, facing the Qiblah (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca). Family members or those who performed the Ghusl (washing) gently lower the body into the grave, ensuring it is treated with care and dignity. If a Lahd (a niche or chamber within the grave) is available, the body is placed inside it. If not, the body is laid directly in the grave.
Once the body is in place, it is covered with wooden boards or slabs to protect it, and then soil is gently placed over the body until the grave is filled. During this time, attendees may make Dua (prayers) for the deceased, asking for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. Simplicity is key in Islamic burials, with no elaborate decorations on the grave, reflecting the belief in humility and equality before Allah (SWT).
In Islamic teachings, there is no strict prohibition against women attending the burial, though customs may vary. In some cultures, women are encouraged to attend, while in others, they may observe from a distance.
Mourning Period
In Islam, when someone passes away, their close family members mourn for three days. During this time, they focus on prayer, remembering the person, and receiving support from others. Friends and neighbors often visit to offer their condolences and help the family.
However, for a woman whose husband has died, her mourning period is longer. She mourns for Four Months and Ten Days. This time is called Iddah, and it allows her to grieve and adjust to her loss. During Iddah, the woman avoids wearing fancy clothes or jewelry and focuses on prayer and reflection.
Prohibited Practices
In Islam, it is okay to feel sad and show grief when someone passes away, but there are certain things that are not allowed. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught Muslims to avoid the following behaviors:
- Excessive Crying or Wailing: Loudly crying, screaming, or wailing is not allowed because it shows dissatisfaction with Allah’s (SWT) will.
- Tearing Clothes: Acts like tearing clothing or slapping someone’s face are forbidden as they reflect a lack of patience.
- Elaborate Graves: Islam encourages simplicity, so marking graves with decorated decorations is discouraged.
Condolences and Community Support
In Islam, helping and supporting a grieving family is very important. Offering condolences to the family of the person who passed away is a kind and encouraging act. Here’s how the community shows their support:
- Visiting the Family: People visit the grieving family to offer emotional support, make Dua (prayers) for the person who passed away, and help the family feel less alone during their sadness.
- Providing Food: During the first three days after the death, community members bring food to the grieving family. This allows the family to focus on their mourning without worrying about cooking or other daily tasks.
- Helping with Funeral Rites: The community helps organize and conduct the funeral, making sure everything is done according to Islamic teachings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How Long Does a Muslim Funeral Last?
A Muslim funeral usually lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. The funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah), moving the body, and the burial all happen quickly, often within 24 hours after the person passes away.
Q2. What is the Dress Code for an Islamic funeral?
The dress code for an Islamic funeral is modest and respectful. Men usually wear simple clothing, often in neutral colors like white, gray, or black, avoiding luxury attire. Women typically wear long, loose-fitting garments that cover the body, including a headscarf (hijab) to cover their hair. Bright colors or flashy clothing are discouraged.
Q3. Are Non-Muslims Allowed at Islamic Funerals Prayer?
Yes, non-Muslims are generally allowed to attend Islamic funerals. They are expected to follow the customs, show respect, and maintain quiet, grave behavior. Non-Muslims may not participate in the Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer) but can offer condolences and support to the family.
Q4. What happens 3 days after death in Islam?
Three days after death marks a significant period in Islamic mourning. Family and friends often gather to recite Surah Al-Fatiha and other prayers for the deceased. This time allows for community support and condolences to be offered to the family.
Q5. Why should we not Cry when someone Dies in Islam?
Crying is allowed, but more crying or loud grieving is discouraged as it shows a lack of acceptance of Allah’s (SWT) will.
Q6. Can a husband touch his wife after death in Islam?
A husband may touch his wife after death, especially during the initial preparation. However, same-gender relatives or community members wash the body.
Q7. Can a woman attend a Muslim funeral?
Yes, women can attend Muslim funerals, although cultural norms and practices may differ. Some communities encourage women to attend the Salat al-Janazah and burial. However, other communities may ask them to observe from a distance or not attend the burial at all. However, religiously, there is no explicit prohibition against women attending the funeral or the burial.
Q8. What happens after a Muslim funeral?
After a Muslim funeral, the family enters a mourning period, and the community offers support. The deceased’s soul enters the Barzakh, waiting for the Day of Judgment.
Q10. What is the Islamic burial time limit?
A person must be buried as soon as possible after death. This is usually no more than 24 hours.
Q11. Why does the whole community attend Islamic funerals?
In Islam, attending a funeral is considered an act of communal responsibility (Fard Kifayah). However, the entire community is encouraged to support the family of the deceased and pray for the forgiveness and mercy of the deceased’s soul. This fosters unity, provides emotional support, and highlights the collective responsibility of helping one another during grief.
