Muslim Traditions

The Islamic funeral is rooted in tradition, and it’s important to choose a funeral provider that is familiar with the rituals and customs that families desire in order to show respect to their loved one.

Islamic Funeral Customs

Islamic families and communities are generally very close, and this means that many attend the funeral to show their support, pay their respects and grieve the loss of a loved one. In keeping with Islamic traditions, the funeral and burial happen as soon as possible in order to free the soul from the body.

The departed are washed by adult members of the family—men by men, and women by women. Then, they are ceremonially wrapped in white cloth and buried within three days of the time of death. It’s a specific process that includes an odd number of washings and a number of steps dictating which body part is washed in what order. Because of both the wrap and the desire to bury the dead as soon as possible, Muslim funerals generally don’t have a viewing, though this may be done by certain members of the community directly after the body is wrapped.

Most Muslim funeral traditions focus on respect and allow for more grieving time to help those in mourning recover from the loss. A Muslim funeral is a very formal, traditional service that generally takes place in a mosque with little deviation over time and a series of customs that must be observed. After leaving their shoes at the door, men and women sit on the floor in separate areas. Women must cover their heads with a veil or scarf and wear loose, modest clothing.

The service is brief and consists of ritual chanting and recitation from the Quran. Before the body is taken away for burial, visitors and mourners file past to pay their last respects.

Those attending are encouraged to dress formally and not wear any potentially conflicting religious attire (for instance, rosary beads if an attendee is Catholic).

Family and friends customarily bring food to the family to keep them from having to attend to these details. Comments to the bereaved should be short and respectful of all attendees. It is appropriate to send flowers after the funeral.  Feel free to contact the funeral home with questions regarding the availability of services.