by Amina Ouchai

Created on: July 14, 2009

For Muslims, although a death is a sad occasion, it is not seen as the end for that person. Our earthly existence (duniya) is regarded as being only temporary, and will be followed by the afterlife (akhira). Death must be accepted as the will of Allah, and should be borne with as much patience as possible. When the news of death in the family reaches the relatives and friends, the first thing that they are reminded to say is the following Qur'nic verse (2:156): "Inna lil-lhi wa inn ilayhi rji'n [Truly! To Allh we belong and truly, to Him we shall return]." This du' is known in Arabic as al-Istirj.

Every action in the life of a Muslim can be done as an act of worship, if performed for the sake of Allah. The Prophet Muhammed (Peace Be Upon Him), showed through his words and actions how to put the teachings of the Quran into practice. Therefore by carrying out funerals according to the Sunnah (or the way of the Prophet, PBUH), a Muslim is showing his love of Allah and his respect of the deceased. Although there are regional differences in funerals, especially in countries which have adopted practices from other faiths or cultures, there are some key elements which are essential for all Muslims.

Before death

Muslims are encouraged to visit those who are sick or dying, and to offer them words of support and prayers. The dying should be encouraged to say the Shahada, or declaration of faith (there is no god but Allah and Muhammed is the Messenger of Allah), and to repent for their sins. They should also be urged to bear their suffering with patience, as they will be rewarded for this in the afterlife. Muslims are also encouraged to be present when non-Muslims are dying in order to present Islam to them, in the hope that they will accept Islam prior to their deaths.

Islamic inheritance laws make automatic provision for the family left behind. However, up to one third of the wealth can be allocated to other people (such as friends or neighbours, by way of a gift. The Prophet (PBUH) recommended that if people wanted to give these gifts, they should keep written wills to ensure that this would be allocated after death.

After death

Several actions are obligatory after death. Firstly the eyes should be closed and prayers said for the deceased. The body should be covered with a large sheet for the purpose of maintaining dignity. The funeral should happen as quickly as possible (as the body usually stays in the house until prayers and burial), and

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