Losing someone you love is never easy. When a death happens, there’s often a deep desire to do things right and to honour the person who has died in a way that reflects their beliefs, values, and traditions.
For Muslim families, funeral rites are not just customs, but acts of faith. The practices that take place from the moment of death to the final burial are guided by Islamic law, rooted in centuries-old traditions that focus on dignity, respect, and spiritual preparation for the afterlife.
This article explains Muslim funeral etiquette and rituals, so whether you are part of the Islamic community or simply attending a Muslim funeral for the first time, you can understand what to expect and how to show your respect.
Beliefs about death in Islam
In Islam, death is not seen as an end, but as a transition. Life on earth is considered a test, a preparation for the eternal life that follows.
Muslims believe that after death, the soul is taken from the body and awaits the Day of Judgement. On that day, every person’s deeds, good and bad, are weighed. Entry into Jannah (Paradise) is granted to those whose good deeds outweigh the bad, through the mercy of Allah.
Because of this belief, Islamic funeral rites are more than a way to say goodbye. They are seen as essential steps in preparing the deceased for what comes next, both physically and spiritually. Every action, from washing the body to the funeral prayers, is rooted in faith.
What happens immediately after a death in Islam
Islam places great emphasis on burying the deceased as quickly as possible, ideally before the next sunset, and within 24 hours if possible. This means that certain preparations happen straight away.
As soon as death is confirmed:
- The eyes are gently closed, and the jaw is bound to keep the mouth closed.
- The body is covered with a clean sheet, protecting the person’s dignity.
- Prayers are offered for mercy and forgiveness.
Family and close friends will begin making arrangements immediately, contacting the local mosque or Islamic funeral service to organise the washing, shrouding, prayers, and burial.
Mourning in Islam
Mourning is a natural part of loss, and Islam allows for grief to be expressed, but within certain guidelines. The mourning period is called Hidaad and lasts for three days for most relatives.
During this time, it is acceptable to cry quietly, but loud wailing, screaming, or excessive displays of grief are discouraged. The focus is on patience, prayer, and remembering the mercy of Allah.
There is a special period of mourning for widows, known as Iddah, which lasts four months and ten days. During Iddah:
- The widow does not wear perfume or jewellery.
- She remains in her home except for essential needs such as work or errands.
- She may visit friends and family, but must return home to sleep.
- She does not remarry during this time.
The Muslim funeral service
Muslim funerals, known as Janazah, are simple but deeply meaningful. The service usually takes place at a mosque, although it can also be held in a prayer space at an Islamic centre.
Before the burial, mourners gather to perform Ṣalāt al-Janāzah, the Islamic funeral prayer. This is a collective act of asking Allah to forgive the deceased and all Muslims who have died.
Key features of the Janazah prayer:
- Everyone faces Mecca, the holiest city in Islam.
- Mourners form at least three rows, with men traditionally at the front.
- The prayer is spoken standing, without bowing or prostration.
After the prayers, the funeral procession moves to the burial site.
Islamic burial rituals
In Islam, cremation is not permitted. Burial is the only accepted method of laying someone to rest, as it is considered more respectful to the body.
At the graveside, the body is placed so that the right side faces Mecca. This is an important sign of faith, symbolising that even in death, the person turns towards Allah.
Other burial traditions include:
- Preventing the body from touching the earth directly by placing wood or stones at the base of the grave.
- Mourners filling the grave with soil, often placing three handfuls each as a final gesture of farewell.
- Keeping the grave simple, with a small marker rather than an elaborate headstone.
The burial is followed by silent prayers, and family members often remain at the grave for a short while.
Preparing the body in Islam
The preparation of the body, known as Ghusl al-Mayyit, is one of the most significant rituals in an Islamic funeral.
The body is washed respectfully and modestly, usually by close family members of the same sex, or by the spouse. This act is considered both a duty and a final service of love.
The washing follows a specific order:
- Upper right side
- Upper left side
- Lower right side
- Lower left side
The process is repeated at least three times, and always an odd number of times. For women, the hair is washed, perfumed lightly, and braided into three plaits.
Once washed, the body is dried and wrapped in a plain white shroud known as a Kafan. The shroud consists of three sheets for men and five for women, symbolising purity and equality in death.
Muslim funeral etiquette for attendees
If you are attending a Muslim funeral, showing respect for the faith and the family is important. Here’s what you should know:
- Dress modestly: Men should wear a shirt and trousers; women should wear a headscarf, ankle-length skirt, and long-sleeved top.
- Remove shoes before entering the prayer area, and wear clean socks.
- Follow gender seating arrangements: In many Muslim communities, men and women pray separately.
- Avoid taking photos or videos — this is not permitted.
- Keep emotions quiet and respectful: Loud displays of grief are discouraged.
Traditionally, only men attend the burial, although in some communities women also attend.
Islamic funeral prayers
The central prayer at a Muslim funeral is Ṣalāt al-Janāzah, led by an Imam. This prayer is shorter than the daily prayers but carries deep meaning, asking for forgiveness and mercy for the deceased.
It is an act of collective worship, and every Muslim man is expected to take part. Women may also join if they wish, depending on cultural norms.
Planning a Muslim funeral in the UK
Muslim communities in the UK often work closely with local mosques and Islamic funeral services to ensure the rites are carried out properly.
If you are responsible for arranging a Muslim funeral in the UK:
- Contact the local mosque immediately — they will guide you on the steps to take.
- Choose a funeral director experienced in Islamic funerals, ideally with links to the mosque.
- Arrange for the body to be washed and shrouded according to Islamic tradition.
- Plan for the funeral to take place as soon as possible — ideally within 24 hours.
Unlike some other traditions, there is no viewing or open-casket service in Islam. Instead, mourners gather for prayers at the mosque or Islamic centre before proceeding to the burial site.
Supporting a grieving Muslim family
If you are visiting or offering condolences to a Muslim family after a death, remember that comfort can be offered in both words and actions.
You might say:
"Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un" — “Surely we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return.”
Acts of support could include preparing food for the family, helping with childcare, or assisting with funeral arrangements so they can focus on prayers and mourning.
Key differences between Islamic funerals and other traditions
While many faiths have rituals for honouring the dead, Islamic funerals are distinct in their speed, simplicity, and focus on humility before Allah.
- Speed: Burial takes place quickly, often within 24 hours, whereas Christian burials might happen one or two weeks after a death.
- Equality: All are buried in plain shrouds, regardless of wealth or status.
- Prayer over eulogy: The focus is on prayers for forgiveness rather than speeches or tributes.
These practices reflect the Islamic belief in returning to Allah as we arrived without material possessions, status, or adornment.
Muslim funeral etiquette and rituals are deeply tied to faith, family, and community. Every step from closing the eyes of the deceased to placing the final handful of soil on the grave is an act of love and devotion.
For those attending or arranging a Muslim funeral, understanding these customs is a way to show respect not just for the person who has died, but for the beliefs that shaped their life.
Whether you are part of the Muslim community or simply wish to support a grieving friend, knowing what to expect can help you approach the day with empathy, dignity, and understanding.
