Muslim Funeral Service Etiquette and Processes to Follow

Muslim funerals follow a structured and dignified process, deeply rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and the Hadith (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). These rites are performed in accordance with Islamic law (Shariah), with specific adherence to Hanafi Sunni fiqh, ensuring the deceased is honoured and returned to Allah in a respectful and proper manner.

Preparation of the Body

The preparation of the deceased is a fundamental obligation in Islam and must be carried out with utmost care and reverence. The Ghusl (ritual washing) and Kafan (shrouding) are essential steps before the Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer) and burial.

1. Ghusl (Ritual Washing)

Islamic tradition mandates that the body undergoes a ritual purification (Tajheez) before burial. This is performed in accordance with the Sunnah and is an obligatory communal duty (Fard Kifayah), meaning that if some members of the community perform it, the obligation is lifted from others.

• Who Performs Ghusl?

  • The washing is conducted by close family members or designated individuals of the same gender as the deceased.
  • For women, female relatives or trusted women in the community perform the washing.
  • If no one is available, trained individuals from a funeral service may conduct it.

• How is Ghusl Performed?

  • The body is gently washed at least three times with clean, lukewarm water, following the Sunnah method.
  • Camphor or scented water may be used in the final wash, following Hanafi guidelines.
  • The body is purified in the same manner as Wudu (ablution), ensuring all major and minor impurities are removed.
  • The deceased is handled with modesty and care, maintaining their dignity throughout.

2. Kafan (Shrouding)

After Ghusl, the body is dressed in a simple white shroud (Kafan), which represents purity and humility. In Hanafi fiqh:

• Men are wrapped in three sheets:

  • Izar (lower garment),
  • Qamis (long shirt),
  • Lifafah (outer sheet).

• Women are wrapped in five sheets:

  • Izar (lower garment),
  • Qamis (long shirt),
  • Lifafah (outer sheet),
  • Khimar (head covering),
  • Sinaband (chest wrap).

The shroud is secured but not excessively tied, as Islamic teachings emphasise simplicity and equality in death, avoiding unnecessary adornments.

3. Salat al-Janazah (The Funeral Prayer)

The Janazah prayer is an integral part of the Muslim funeral, offering supplication for the deceased. It is a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah), meaning it is encouraged for as many people as possible to attend.

How the Janazah Prayer is Performed (Hanafi Fiqh):

• The prayer is conducted standing (no bowing or prostration).
• It consists of four Takbirs (Allahu Akbar):
  
  1. First Takbir: Recite Surah Al-Fatiha.
  2. Second Takbir: Send blessings upon the Prophet ﷺ (Durud-e-Ibrahim).
  3. Third Takbir: Make dua for the deceased, seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy.
  4. Fourth Takbir: Conclude the prayer with salaam (turning the head right and left).

The Janazah prayer is performed quickly without unnecessary delays, in accordance with the Hadith:

“Hasten with the Janazah, for if it was a righteous person, then it is something good you are sending forward. And if it was otherwise, then it is an evil of which you are ridding yourselves.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

Where is the Janazah Prayer Performed?

• Preferably in the mosque, a designated funeral prayer area, or at the cemetery.
• It is recommended to hold the prayer after one of the five daily Salah, ensuring greater community attendance.

4. Burial Procedures (Dafn)

After the funeral prayer, the deceased is transported to the graveyard for burial, following Islamic customs.

1. Placement in the Grave

• The body is laid in the grave on its right side, facing the Qiblah.
• Male relatives or community members may gently lower the deceased into the grave, ensuring they are handled with respect.
• The grave should be deep enough to prevent disturbance, following prophetic guidance.

2. Covering the Grave

• The grave is filled with earth, and a simple marker is placed to identify the burial site.
• Islam discourages extravagant tombstones or decorations, emphasising humility in death.
• The grave should be levelled with the ground, avoiding unnecessary structures.

5. Common Practices and Customs

Mourning Period & Condolences

• Islam encourages expressing grief with patience (Sabr), but excessive wailing and lamentation should be avoided.
• Immediate family members, particularly widows, observe Iddah (four months and ten days), refraining from marriage and social festivities during this time.
• Community members visit the bereaved family, offering condolences and support.

Dua & Charity for the Deceased

Islam teaches that the good deeds of the deceased cease upon death, except for three things:

1. Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity, e.g., building a well, funding a mosque).
2. Beneficial knowledge left behind.
3. A righteous child who prays for them. (Hadith – Muslim)

• Families and friends can honour the deceased by giving charity in their name, such as providing food to the needy, sponsoring an orphan, or supporting Islamic education.
• Reciting Qur’an (e.g., Surah Yasin) and making dua for the deceased is highly recommended.

Final Words

At Muslim Funeral Services, we are committed to guiding and supporting families through every stage of the funeral process in accordance with Islamic principles and Hanafi fiqh.

For assistance or further information, please contact us. We are here to help in your time of need.