مرحبا بكم في موقع مواقيت الصلاة

How to Perform Janazah Prayer: The Ultimate Guide to Honoring the Departed Loved Ones

Are you unsure about the correct steps to perform a Janazah prayer? Did you know that this funeral prayer is considered an essential part of Muslim beliefs, being a communal obligation (Fard Kifayah)?

This comprehensive guide will explain every step, from preparing the deceased to performing every Takbir correctly.

Keep reading to get a deep understanding of Janazah prayer!

Understanding the Importance of Janazah Prayer

The Janazah Prayer is crucial in Islamic traditions, often considered a communal obligation or ‘Fardh kifayah.’ It is a collective supplication by the community for the deceased’s forgiveness.

The significance of this ritual is emphasized in numerous hadiths in which our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged believers to attend funeral rites and make Du’a for those who have died.

“‏ إِذَا رَأَيْتُمُ الْجَنَازَةَ فَقُومُوا، فَمَنْ تَبِعَهَا فَلاَ يَقْعُدْ حَتَّى تُوضَعَ ‏”‏‏.‏

“When you see a funeral procession, you should stand up, and whoever accompanies it should not sit till the coffin is put down.”

Sahih al-Bukhari 1310

Attending Janazah prayer strengthens your bonds with fellow believers and reinforces essential aspects of your faith. It serves as a reminder of your belief in the afterlife and the significance of Resurrection Day, highlighting the inevitability of death and the need for personal accountability.

Participating in Janazah makes you more aware of mortality, leading to a greater appreciation of life and a more profound sense of compassion for others.

Preparing for the Janazah Prayer

Preparing for the Janazah Prayer involves several steps, such as preparing the deceased, bathing the dead, and shrouding the deceased.

Preparing the Deceased

Preparing the deceased in Islam is a sacred and respectful act that requires adherence to certain rituals.

• Identifying the signs of death: The first step in preparing the deceased is to confirm death, marked by stillness and lack of response.
• Saying “La ilaha illa-l-lah”: Upon confirming death, those present should remind the deceased to recite “La ilaha illa-l-lah” as per Islamic traditions.
• Bathing the Deceased: Using pure water, preferably Sidr water if available, the deceased’s body is washed three times or more (up to seven times), with an odd-numbered final bathing.
• Bathing gender requirements: Men are responsible for bathing male bodies and women for female bodies.
• Handling martyrs and aborted fetuses: Special rules apply to martyrs. Martyrs who die in battle are buried in their martyr’s clothes, while pregnant women should be bathed like other women, but if the fetus in the womb is six months old and likely to survive, they should cut her abdomen and take the child out. If the fetus is under six months old, her abdomen does not need to be cut out (source: burying a dead pregnant woman – Islamweb – Fatwas)
• Shrouding the Deceased: After bathing, shrouding involves wrapping the body in clean sheets known as Ihram garments or Kafan.
• Preparing for prayer: After shrouding, the Janazah Prayer or Salatul Janazah is performed to honor Muslim funeral rites.
• Proceeding towards burial: After making all necessary preparations, including Islamic death rituals like praying over and performing worship acts per Islamic Sharia guidelines, the deceased is buried facing Qiblah following Islamic funeral law.
• Selecting individuals knowledgeable about funeral bath rulings: These complex processes must be executed correctly based on Muslim beliefs and customs inherited from Prophet Muhammad’s PBUH teachings.

Bathing the Deceased

Bathing the deceased must be done with the utmost respect and care, according to Islamic customs and traditions. It starts with selecting someone well-versed in funeral bath regulations.

Men are in charge of bathing deceased males, while women are in charge of bathing dead females. In the case of a married couple, each spouse can bathe the other.

• The person washing the dead should start by covering their ‘Awrah (private parts).
• The deceased should be undressed from their clothes.
• It is desirable to conceal the deceased from people’s eyes, and only those assisting in the washing should be present.
• The deceased should be placed on a washing bed or high place, with their head raised.
• Gentle pressure should be applied to the belly, pouring abundant water.
• The private parts of the deceased should be washed using a cloth.
• It is not permissible to touch the ‘Awrah directly of a seven-year-old or older without a cloth.
• It is recommended to touch the rest of the body with a cloth.
• Ablution (wudu) is recommended for the deceased, starting with the right side.
• Water should not be put into the nose or mouth of the deceased. Instead, fingers should be wet and used to clean the teeth and nostrils.
• Ghusl (ritual bathing) should be performed for the deceased, using Sidr (good-smelling leaves) as foam for washing the head and beard.
• The entire body should be washed an odd number of times, either three, five, or more, as needed.
• The belly of the deceased should be touched with each wash, and camphor should be applied in the last wash.
• Camphor is used to give the body a pleasing scent and repel insects.
• Soap can be used if needed.
• Mustache can be cut and nails clipped, but the hair should not be combed.
• Discharges from the deceased after washing should be addressed, and the anus should be closed with cotton if necessary.
• The hairs of a female should be loosened, washed, combed, braided in three braids, and tied behind her back. Sahih al-Bukhari 1254

Shrouding the Deceased

Shrouding the deceased is essential to preparing them for their final resting place. Here are the steps involved in covering the dead:

• A simple white cloth (referred to as Kafan) should be used to make the shroud. It must be clean and free of impurities.
• Begin wrapping the deceased in three layers of plain white cloth. Begin with a large piece that wraps around the entire body from head to toe.
• The second piece is wrapped around the head and neck.
• Finally, wrap a smaller piece around the lower body.
• Secure each piece of cloth firmly but not too tightly to ensure proper respect and ease of handling during burial.
• Involving family members or close friends in this process is essential because it is considered honorable and can provide comfort during this difficult time.

Performing the Janazah Prayer

Performing the Janazah Prayer is a solemn act of worship where we pay our final respects to the deceased and seek forgiveness for them. It is time to explore each step and learn how to perform this vital prayer.

The Opinions of Hanbalis and Hanafis on Janazah Prayer

According to the Hanbalis, after saying the first takbir, you must recite Al-Fatiha, then Durood-e-Ibrahimi on the second takbir, The Du’a of Maghfirah for the deceased on the third takbir, and the prayer is concluded on the fourth takbir.

On the other hand, the Hanafis do not recite Surah Al Fatiha after the first takbir; instead, they recite San’a (Dua of Istiftah) “Subhanak Allahumma…”

It’s a big debate between the two groups, but we won’t get into it because this article is just for information. To learn more, click here:  Janaza prayer without Surah Fatiha. – IslamQA

Step 1: The First Takbir and Seeking Refuge from Shaytan

The initial step in performing the Janazah prayer is to begin with the first takbir, saying “Allahu Akbar” (Allah SWT is the Greatest) while raising your hands. This signifies the start of the funeral prayer and shows submission to Allah SWT’s command. Sahih Muslim 391b

Then, as we have mentioned above that Hanafis recite the Dua of Istiftah:

Subhānaka Allāhumma wa biḥamdika, wa tabāraka ‘smuka, wa ta’ālā jadduka,wa lā ‘ilāha ghayruk.

Glory is to You O Allah, and praise. Blessed is Your Name and Exalted is Your Majesty. There is none worthy of worship but You. Hisn al-Muslim 28

While the Hanbalis recite Surah Al-Fatiha. You can choose any one method that you prefer.

Step 2: The Second Takbir and Reciting Salutations on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

The second takbir is an essential part of performing the Janazah Prayer. After the second takbir, where you raise your hands and say “Allahu Akbar,” you then lower your hands and recite salutations on Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

“Allahumma Salli ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala `Ali Muhammadin, kama sal-laita ‘ala all Ibrahima innaka Hamidun Majid. Allahumma barik ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala all Muhammadin, kama barakta ‘ala all Ibrahima, innaka Hamidun Majid.” Sahih al-Bukhari 6357

Step 3: The Third Takbir and Making Du’a for the Deceased

The third takbir is performed during the Janazah prayer to seek Allah SWT’s mercy and forgiveness for the deceased. This is accomplished by making Du’a on their behalf. The following are some critical aspects of making Du’a for the deceased.

Following the third takbir, recite the following Du’a:

“‏ اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِحَيِّنَا وَمَيِّتِنَا وَشَاهِدِنَا وَغَائِبِنَا وَصَغِيرِنَا وَكَبِيرِنَا وَذَكَرِنَا وَأُنْثَانَا اللَّهُمَّ مَنْ أَحْيَيْتَهُ مِنَّا فَأَحْيِهِ عَلَى الإِسْلاَمِ وَمَنْ تَوَفَّيْتَهُ مِنَّا فَتَوَفَّهُ عَلَى الإِيمَانِ اللَّهُمَّ لاَ تَحْرِمْنَا أَجْرَهُ وَلاَ تُضِلَّنَا بَعْدَهُ ‏”

“Allahummaghfir lihayyina wa mayyitina, wa shahidina wa gha’ibina, wa saghirina wa kabirina, wa dhakarina wa unthana. Allahumma man ahyaitahu minna fa’ahyihi ‘alal-Islam, wa man tawaffaytahu minna fa tawaffahu ‘alal- iman. Allahumma la tahrimna ajrahu wa la tudillana ba’dah.”

“O Allah, forgive our living and our dead, those who are present and those who are absent, our young and our old, our males and our females. O Allah SWT, whomever of us You cause to live, let him live in Islam, and whomever of us You cause to die, let him die in (a state of) faith. O Allah, do not deprive us of his reward, and do not let us go astray after him”

Reference: Sunan Ibn Majah 1498

If you want to memorize other Duas, you will find them here: Duas for Supplication for the deceased at the funeral prayer | Hisnul Muslim (ahadith.co.uk)

Step 4: The Fourth Takbir and Concluding the Prayer

• For the fourth Takbir, raise your hands to your ears and say “Allahu Akbar” (Allah SWT is the Greatest)
• Then End the prayer with “Assalamu ‘Alaikum wa Rahmatullah” (Peace be upon you and Allah SWT’s Mercy).
• Turn your head to the right shoulder and say “Assalamu ‘Alaikum wa Rahmatullah,” then repeat the exact words by turning your head to the left shoulder.

Note: It’s up to you whether you want to raise your hands in the second, third or fourth takbir, but all the scholars agree that you have to raise your hands while saying the first takbir.

Post-Janazah Prayer Rites

The deceased is respectfully carried to the gravesite after the Janazah prayer, where they will be buried with dignity. The burial procedure entails lowering the body into the grave, filling it with soil, and placing a marker or headstone to mark the final resting place.

It is also critical to console and support the bereaved family during this difficult time. Regular visits to the graves can also serve as a means of remembering and reflecting on our mortality.

Carrying the Deceased to the Grave

Carrying the deceased to the grave is crucial in the post-Janazah rites. Here’s what you need to know:

• The deceased’s body should be handled with care and respect.
• Men, preferably close relatives or friends, should carry the dead.
• The body should be placed on a stretcher or a strong enough board to support it.
• During transportation, the body should be covered with a clean white cloth.
• Carrying the dead to the grave represents the end of their earthly life.
• The grave should be prepared to ensure that it meets all Islamic requirements.
• Once at the gravesite, the body should be gently and carefully lowered into the grave.
• Any remaining dirt or soil should be carefully placed on the body after lowering.
• While burying, reciting prayers or supplications can bring comfort and peace.

Burying the Deceased

Burying the deceased is the final step in the funeral rites of a Muslim. It is a solemn and essential part of honoring and respecting the dead. Here are the critical steps involved in burying the deceased:

• Digging the Grave: According to Islamic guidelines, a suitable grave should be dug, typically in a cemetery or designated burial ground. The grave should be deep enough to accommodate the body and provide adequate cover.
• Lowering the Body: The deceased’s body is gently lowered into the grave with the utmost care and respect. Close family members or trusted individuals typically perform this task.
• Positioning: The body should be positioned so the right side faces the Qiblah (prayer direction). This is evidence of adherence to Islamic traditions, but not compulsory.
• Placing Supports: To avoid direct contact with the Earth, planks or bricks can be placed on either side of the body. This aids in the maintenance of proper placement during backfilling.
• Backfilling: After the body has been properly positioned, the grave is gradually filled with soil. Excessive pressure should be avoided at all costs, as it can harm or disturb the body.
• Tamping Down: As soil is filled, gently tamp it down by lightly stepping on it. This helps to maintain stability and prevents uneven sinking.
• Completing with Mound: After filling the grave, a slight mound may be created as a marker or identifier for future reference. Expensive markers or structures, on the other hand, are forbidden in Islam.
• During Burial recite this Dua: ‏ بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى سُنَّةِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏”‏” In the name of Allah SWT, and following the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah SWT PBUH (we are burying it). Sunan Abi Dawud 3213

Consoling the Family of the Deceased

In Islam, consoling the deceased’s family is an essential part of the funeral rituals. It entails being present and providing support and comfort to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.

One way to comfort the family is to remind them to say “Inna lillahi Wa Inna Ilayihi Rajioon” (Surely to Allah SWT we belong, and to Him we will all return), which serves as a reminder of their faith and provides comfort in knowing that Allah SWT’s mercy and forgiveness are available to all believers.

This consolation helps alleviate the family’s grief while demonstrating solidarity and compassion within the Muslim community.

Visiting the Graves

In Islam, visiting the graves is a way to remember the deceased, reflect on their mortality, and seek forgiveness for them. It is encouraged to visit the graves of your loved ones to connect with their memories and find comfort.

However, it is crucial to remember that visiting graves should be done respectfully and sincerely. You should refrain from performing shirk (associating partners with Allah SWT), like invoking or seeking assistance from the deceased.

Instead, pay your respects and make Du’a for their forgiveness and well-being in the afterlife.

Avoid over-mourning or engaging in non-Islamic rituals such as lighting lanterns at graves, ripping clothing, slapping cheeks, or plucking hair. Following Islamic traditions ensures a meaningful and appropriate visit to the graves of your loved ones.

Avoiding Prohibited Acts During Funeral Rites

• Certain prohibited acts during funeral rites must be avoided because they violate Islamic teachings and etiquette.
• Avoid any form of shirk, which involves associating partners with Allah SWT. Invoking the deceased or seeking their intercession are examples of this.
• Do not engage in practices considered innovations (bid’ah) in Islam, such as circumambulating or lighting lanterns at graves.
• As an act of mourning, refrain from ripping clothing, slapping the cheeks, plucking hair, or shaving the head. Islamic teachings prohibit such behavior(s). Sahih al-Bukhari 1294
• Do not invoke the grave or seek its blessings. The emphasis should remain on praying for the deceased’s mercy and forgiveness.
• Avoid superstitious beliefs or rituals, such as erecting mosques on graves or plastering and painting graves with ornate decorations. Sahih Muslim 969a, 969b
• Avoid excessive weeping over the deceased, as Islam promotes patience and acceptance of Allah SWT’s will.

Prohibited times for Burial

There were three times at which Prophet Muhammad PBUH forbade us to pray or bury our dead

• When the sun begins to rise till it is fully up
• When the sun is at its height at midday till it passes over the meridian
• When the sun draws near to setting till it sets.

Reference: Sahih Muslim 831

The Virtues of Attending the Janazah Prayer

Attending the Janazah prayer has numerous benefits in Islam. It is a duty and a chance for Muslims to receive blessings and rewards. A Muslim fulfills a fundamental right owed to other Muslims by participating in the funeral prayer.

Attendance demonstrates unity in the community and support for the bereaved family.

Moreover, according to a hadith, there is great reward for those who attend the Janazah prayer. Each person who attends receives one qiraat of reward, and if they stay until the burial is complete, they receive two qiraats of reward:

مَنْ شَهِدَ الْجَنَازَةَ حَتَّى يُصَلِّيَ عَلَيْهَا فَلَهُ قِيرَاطٌ، وَمَنْ شَهِدَ حَتَّى تُدْفَنَ كَانَ لَهُ قِيرَاطَانِ ‏”‏‏.‏ قِيلَ وَمَا الْقِيرَاطَانِ قَالَ ‏”‏ مِثْلُ الْجَبَلَيْنِ الْعَظِيمَيْنِ

Whoever attends the funeral procession till he offers the funeral prayer for it will get a reward equal to one Qirat, and whoever accompanies it till burial will get a reward equal to two Qirats.” It was asked, “What are two Qirats?” He replied, “Like two huge mountains.”

Sahih al-Bukhari 1325

This means that individuals can amass significant blessings by assembling as a congregation to pray for the deceased.

In addition to the mentioned rewards, attending the Janazah prayer has profound spiritual benefits. It serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death, encouraging people to consider their mortality and prioritize acts of worship and righteousness in this world.

Furthermore, by joining others in praying for forgiveness and mercy on the deceased, participants actively engage with their faith and fulfill one’s obligations toward fellow believers.

The more people who participate in this act of devotion, the better it becomes for both themselves and those who have died.

Finally, attending the Janazah prayer goes beyond fulfilling religious obligations; it allows Muslims to demonstrate compassion toward others while reconnecting with Allah SWT.

The benefits of participating in this important ritual cannot be overstated; from receiving blessings and rewards to reflecting on the purpose of our lives, it is a powerful reminder of our fleeting existence on Earth.

Conclusion

The Janazah prayer is not only a religious obligation, but also an opportunity to show respect and honor for the deceased. You can fulfill your duty to your departed loved ones by following the proper steps of preparation, performing prayer, and post-Janazah rites.

We hope this guide will be a resource for you in navigating this crucial Islamic ritual with grace and sincerity, helping you pay your final respects to the departed soul(s) and seek blessings for them in the Hereafter.

FAQs

What is the Janazah prayer?

Janazah prayer is an Islamic funeral prayer for a Muslim who has died. It is a necessary ritual in the burial process, performed to seek forgiveness for the deceased and to request peace and mercy from Allah SWT.

How do I perform Janazah prayer?

To pray Janazah, adhere to the specific steps outlined by Islamic traditions. Forming rows behind the imam, reciting takbeer (saying “Allahu Akbar”), reciting surah Al-Fatiha silently after each takbeer, making Du’a for the deceased, and concluding with tasleem (saying “As-salamu alaykum wa rahmatullah”). The entire procedure should be carried out while standing.

Can anyone participate in the Janazah prayer?

Muslims, at the time of someone’s death or burial, usually attend Janazah prayers. While it is typically performed by close family members and friends of the deceased, any Muslim who wants to join in is welcome to, as long as they know how to perform it.

Are there any specific times when Janazah prayers cannot be performed?

Janazah prayers are not permitted in Islam at the following times: sunrise, sunset, and midday heat (when the sun reaches its zenith). It is critical to follow these guidelines when scheduling or participating in Janazah prayers according to Islamic customs.