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a precaution and leave enough in the full body covering to tie off the ends. The face of the deceased by only be viewed by the closest relatives before being covered.

In the case of the male, the body covered shoulder to calf, navel to ankles, and a full draping containing a slit for the head. Cation is taken to assure modesty by covering Awrah (private parts) with a towel during this process. In the case of female kafan, an extra cloth is added for the head and chest. Specific guidelines also outline what materials may be used.

-Funeral Prayer-

Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer) is performed communally for the dead after cleansing and shrouding as occurred. Along with this congregation, the imam (mosque leader) is present. Supplication is sought to pardon and accept this body and all that died before. Four instances of takbeer (Allah is great) occur in the lengthy process outlined at Salat al-Janazah for abbreviation of this topic.

-Burial and Mourning-

While regional practice varies, all graves should be aligned with Qibla. The body is placed directly into a grave with no outer casket or separate covering. The first process of mourning begins as those present place dirt upon the body of the deceased. There is a three day period of mourning observed after burial; however, widows undergo a longer period of four months and ten days mourning. During this period, they are not permitted to remarry or interact with any potential new mate.

The grave often receives only a minor marker or ornament after the funeral process has completed. While mourning is part of death for loved ones, the ritual process is about comfort. The body is not being prepared and cleaned so carefully just to be dismissed. These actions remind all of those remaining that a life of faith is simply the beginning of the journey. The deceased rest facing Qibla to await their next pilgrimage.

For this reason, excessive display of emotion is often forbidden during the process. The body is being prepared for a journey and the grave serves simply as a miqat from which departure will commence. In a final state of purity, it is the journey that is remembered and honored until they are met again. Even through life, there are simply pilgrims meeting on the greater journey of faith. This is only the land between where purity and faith lead to that sacred destination.

Learn more about this author, Joseph Wigton.
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