THE LAST JOURNEY

Muslim burial is one of the most respected customs in the Islamic faith. As soon as death has occurred, those present should say, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un” (“Verily we belong to Allah, and truly to Him shall we return”). My personal experience has been varied. The most devout Muslims require the bathing, shrouding and burial within 24 hours of death.

According to Islamic law (“shariah”), the body should be buried as soon as possible from the time of death, which means that funeral planning and preparations begin immediately.

Upon death, those with the deceased are encouraged to remain calm, pray for the departed, and begin preparations for burial. The eyes of the deceased should be closed, and the body covered temporarily with a clean sheet. It is forbidden for those in mourning to excessively wail, scream, or thrash about. Grief is normal when one has lost a loved one, and it is natural and permitted to cry. When the Prophet Muhammad’s own son died, he said: “The eyes shed tears, and the heart is grieved, but we will not say anything except which pleases our Lord.” One should strive to be patient, and remember that Allah is the One who gives life and takes it away, at a time appointed by Him. It is not for us to question His wisdom.

Washing and Shrouding

In preparation for burial, the family or other members of the community will wash and shroud the body. The deceased will be washed respectfully, with clean and scented water, in a manner similar to how Muslims make ablutions for prayer. The body will then be wrapped in sheets of clean, white cloth.

   

Funeral Prayers

The body should be then transported to the mosque (“masjid”), an open area within the community or a site for funeral prayers. This is known as “Salat al-Janazah.” (salat-l-janazah).

These prayers are commonly held outdoors. The community gathers, and the imam (prayer leader) stands in front of the deceased, facing away from the worshippers. Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayers) should be performed by all members of the community. The prayer is similar in structure to the five daily prayers, with a few variations. (For example, there is no bowing or prostration, and the entire prayer is said silently but for a few words.)

Burial

After Salat al-Janazah has been recited, the body should be transported to the cemetery for burial. Traditionally, only men are allowed to be present at the burial, but there are exceptions in certain cultures. While all members of the community attend the funeral prayers. According to Islamic Scholars’ it is preferred for a Muslim to be buried where he or she died, and not be transported to another location or country. If available, a cemetery or section of one set aside for Muslims is preferred. The deceased is laid in the grave without a coffin if permitted on his or her right side; facing Mecca.The Imam recites Islamic verses and prays for the deceased.

At the grave site

 At the grave site, it is discouraged for people to erect tombstones, elaborate markers, or put flowers or other mementos. Rather, one should humbly remember Allah and His mercy, and pray for the deceased.