Shrouding (Takfeen) of the Mayyit (deceased)

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By Sheikh Ahmad Kutty

It is necessary that a mayyit be shrouded and wrapped fully in a clean sheet; (while cloth is recommended). The shroud should be simple. A pilgrim who has died in a state of ihram should be wrapped in his ihram. The complete form of shrouding is as follows:

1. Cut the sheets into three pieces for male and five for females. *
2. Place the three bands (included in the kafan package) on the table parallel to one another as follows: One slightly above the head position, the second at the waist, and the last one below the feet.
3. Spread the scented shoruds one on top of the other: spread the lifafh (outer garment) first on the table; place the izar (covering from head to toe) on the lifafah, and then the qarnees (shoulder to knees).

   For a females use the two extra pieces (in the package) to cover the head and the chest.

   

4. Place the body in the shrouds in such a way that the top of the qarnees can be lifted or rolled over the head. The head should now pass through the neck hole so that it fits like a shirt on the body.

   

5. Wrap the izar around the body.

   

6. Use the lifafah to wrap the whole body by overlapping it from side to side.

   

7. Tie the three bands over the shrouds: one above the head, the second around the waist, and the third below the feet. (See Figure 4)

* Shrouds are available as a tailored package (Kafan package) from Mosques.

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