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Short educational material on the funeral prayer, condolences, and dua

How the Funeral Prayer Is Performed

The steps of the funeral prayer, explained simply.

The funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is a prayer performed standing, with four takbirs and no bowing or prostration. Its common form: 1. First takbir: recite Surah Al-Fatihah. 2. Second takbir: recite the Ibrahimic salutation (as in tashahhud). 3. Third takbir: supplicate for the deceased, e.g. "O Allah, forgive them, have mercy on them, pardon them and honour their arrival." 4. Fourth takbir: a brief supplication, then one salam to the right. For detailed rulings, please consult qualified scholars.

Supplicating for the Deceased

Traditional supplications for the deceased.

Among the greatest gifts to the deceased is the supplication of the living. Traditional du'as include: "O Allah, forgive them and have mercy on them, pardon them, honour their arrival and widen their entrance." "O Allah, make their grave a garden from the gardens of Paradise." It is recommended to supplicate for the deceased right after burial and at any time.

Etiquette of Visiting Graves

Recommended etiquette when visiting cemeteries.

Visiting graves is a practice that reminds one of the hereafter. Its etiquette includes: • Greeting the people of the graves with the traditional salutation. • Supplicating and seeking forgiveness for the deceased. • Keeping a low voice and dignified manner. • Not walking or sitting on graves.

What to Say When Offering Condolences

Traditional condolence phrases and their etiquette.

Condolence means comforting the family and reminding them of patience and reward. Among the best phrases: "To Allah belongs what He took and what He gave; everything has an appointed term with Him — so be patient and seek reward." "May Allah magnify your reward, grant you good solace, and forgive your deceased." Keep visits brief, avoid adding to their pain, and supplicate for the deceased.