Burial of the Mayyit

To read the previous part: Click Here

By Sheikh Ahmad Kutty

The mayyit should be escorted to the cemetery for burial after the prayer. It does not matter whether one goes ahead of or behind the procession. In a funeral procession, the proper Islamic etiquette is to observe silence. It should be a time to reflect solemnly on the reality of death.

While burying the mayyit, the following must be done:

1. Loosen the knots of the shrouds.
2. Positioning the body in such a way that it faces the Qiblah, resting on its right side.
3. Gently place the coffin in the grave saying:

[mp3:http://www.ryadussalihin.org/audioar/Chap_058.mp3]

 

Bismillaahi wa ‘alaa sunnati Rasoolillaahi.

With the Name of Allah and according to the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah. (Reported by  Abu Dawud)

4. Those present there should take three handfuls of earth and throw it in the grave saying:

   مِنۡہَا خَلَقۡنَـٰكُمۡ وَفِيہَا نُعِيدُكُمۡ وَمِنۡہَا نُخۡرِجُكُمۡ تَارَةً أُخۡرَىٰ  

Minhaa khalaqnaakum wa feeha nu’eedukum was minhaa nukhrijukum taaratan ukhraa

“From the (earth) did We create you, and into it shall We return you, and from it shall We bring you out once again.” (20:55)

5. Cover the grave fully with earth.

Once the grave has been fully covered, those present should offer a final supplication asking forgiveness for the mayyit. While doing so one may read parts of the Qur’an especially the first and last verses of Surah al-Baqarah (Chapter 2)

Some mark of identification such as a simple headstone can be placed on the grave. However, all forms of extravagances must be strictly avoided as they are contrary to the Prophet’s teachings. It should also be noted that all forms of wailing and lamentation are clearly forbidden by the Prophet (upon whom be Allah’s blessings and peace).

To read the next part: Click Here