An Introduction to Islamic Funerals

Our Sheffield New Muslims leaflet could be used to open up a discussion with family and friends about the differences in a Muslim funeral and burial from what they may be used to. Contact us to request a copy in PDF format.

Below is what is in the leaflet:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

“When their time has come, then they will not remain behind an hour, nor will they precede [it].” (Qur’an, 10:49)

Muslim cemetery

Introduction

There is no doubt that death is the only guaranteed event that will face each and every single living being, be they male or female, rich or poor, black or white. No one can live one second more nor die one second before the span designated for them by Allah.

Despite the uneasiness people feel talking about it, or even merely thinking about it, it makes sense to prepare for it.

As Islamic funerals may be unfamiliar to non-Muslim families, this leaflet has been written to help families and friends prepare and to have something to refer to when a death occurs.

What to do when a Muslim dies:

Further details can be found at

  1. Arrange for the death certificate to be issued as soon as possible (contact the GP if death occurs at home or the bereavement services/Muslim chaplain in the hospital)
  2. Locate the will or letter of wishes
You will find a copy of mine at
  1. Contact the funeral director and the mosque to arrange for the washing, funeral prayer and burial.

I have found the following person/people who will help you to give me the burial I would like:

Name/organisation Telephone number
1.
2.
3.

 

Muslim funerals:

Some of the things that you may find different will be the Islamic requirements for:

  • Burial to be done as soon as possible (unless there is need by law for a post-mortem), usually within 24 hours. This should not be delayed by transporting the body.
  • Washing and shrouding (you may hear them called Ghusl and Kafn in Arabic).
  • Funeral Prayer (called Salat-ul-Janazah in Arabic).
  • Dealing with inheritance (this will be different to British law – please consult my will/letter of wishes).
  • Although there is no requirement for a wake, some cultures do practice this.

Personal wishes:

If I die in Sheffield:

  • I would like my funeral prayer to be held at:
  • I would like to be buried at:

Money to pay for my funeral should be the first thing taken from my estate before the remainder is divided according to Islamic law.

Other notes:

This leaflet has been prepared by the Sheffield New Muslim Project. Further information can be found at: www.sheffieldnewmuslims.co.uk or by contacting: info@sheffieldnewmuslims.co.uk

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