The process of burying the dead in Islam involves several rituals that reflect the respect and dignity due to the deceased. The Islamic burial rites are simple but vary slightly according to the school of thought, as discussed below.
Islamic Schools of Thought on Burying the Deceased
The Islamic scholars have provided three main views on how to bury the deceased. The Hanafi school of thought recommends that the deceased be placed in the grave from the side facing the Qiblah (the direction of prayer), as it is considered an honor, following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). However, if there is concern that the grave might collapse, this method should not be followed.
According to the Maliki scholars, it is preferred to place the deceased in the direction of the Qiblah, though any other position is acceptable. Meanwhile, the Hanbali and Shafi’i scholars recommend that the body be placed in the grave starting from the head side, especially if it is easier to lower the body in this manner. This method is based on the narration of Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA), who described how the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was buried: “They lowered him from the side of his feet first.”
After placing the body in the grave, the knots around the head and feet are untied, even though they are usually tied during transportation to prevent any issues. It is Sunnah (prophetic practice) to lay the deceased on their right side, with the right hand extended along the body.
Burial of a Muslim Woman
When burying a Muslim woman, it is recommended that her close male relatives—such as her husband, father, or brother—lower her into the grave, as they are her mahram (unmarriageable kin). This ensures her modesty is preserved, as it is not permitted for non-related men to view her body. If no mahram is available, other close female relatives or elderly, pious men may assist with the burial.
The body of the woman is placed on her right side in the grave, facing the Qiblah. It is also encouraged to cover her grave to maintain her privacy, even after death. In cases of necessity, if a woman must be buried alongside men, it is important to place a barrier between them inside the grave.
Why is it Important to Hurry the Islamic Burial?
Islam emphasizes the prompt burial of the deceased out of respect for their dignity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed the Muslim community to hasten the burial process. He said: “Hasten with the funeral. If it was a righteous person, then you are hastening towards goodness. If it was otherwise, then it is an evil that you are getting rid of from your necks” (Bukhari and Muslim).
Delaying the burial without a valid reason is discouraged, as it can lead to unnecessary hardship for the family and disrespect for the deceased.
Etiquette in Burial
Burying the dead in Islam is considered a way of honoring the person and maintaining their dignity. The Sunnah suggests that the grave should be dug deep enough, ideally to about half the height of a standing man, and it is preferred to make a luhd (a side chamber within the grave). The body is placed on the right side, facing the Qiblah, with the words, “In the name of Allah and upon the religion of the Messenger of Allah” recited during the process.
Once the body is in place, unbaked bricks (or similar materials) are used to cover the grave without sealing it completely, ensuring no dirt falls on the body. Finally, the grave should be raised about one handspan above the ground and marked with stones or a small marker to indicate its presence.