For Those Left Behind summary

When the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) passed away, Aisha (RA) cried loudly, and Fatimah, realising he had died, recited heartfelt words. She spoke of how he was now close to Allah (SWT) and in Paradise. Seeing someone die and washing their body is a very emotional experience. It reminds us how short life is and that we all will eventually die.

After the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) died, Abu Bakr (RA) kissed his forehead, showing love and respect. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) did the same when Uthman ibn Maz’oon died, highlighting the deep bonds between loved ones.

Burying someone we love is really hard. We see their soul leave their body, wash them, shroud them, and put perfume on them before the burial. The most challenging part is putting dirt on their face. Fatimah once asked Anas ibn Malik (RA) how they managed to bury the Prophet. Anas (RA) said they had to push through their pain and do what was necessary.

The Prophet’s death was especially tough for his companions, who loved him deeply. In Islam, we are taught to bury the body quickly after the funeral prayer. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) once hurried so much to a funeral that his companions had a hard time keeping up. A good soul, when dying, wants to be buried quickly, while a bad soul is confused and hesitant.

When we place the body in the grave, we say, “In the name of Allah, and in the way of the Messenger of Allah,” and we might add prayers for forgiveness and strength for the deceased. The body is laid to face the direction of prayer (qiblah).

After the burial, it’s important to pray for forgiveness and steadiness for the deceased, as they are believed to be questioned by angels about their faith. Group prayers are allowed, but individual prayers are preferred.

We shouldn’t exaggerate when praising the deceased. It’s better to mention their good qualities in a moderate way, as this helps us learn from their lives. Loud crying and wailing are discouraged, but crying quietly is okay.

During the burial, we scatter three handfuls of dirt on the grave. This reminds us that one day, we, too, will be buried. It’s also good for family members to stay by the grave for a while after the burial to offer prayers and comfort the deceased during the questioning by angels.

Overall, the Islamic burial process is respectful, quick, and filled with prayers for the deceased