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

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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.

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.

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.

Recommended etiquette when visiting cemeteries.

Visiting graves is a practice that reminds one of the hereafter. Its etiquette includes:

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.