What happens at a Muslim funeral?

Step 1: washing and shrouding

First the body is washed with water by Muslims of the same sex, often relatives or trained volunteers from the mosque. This follows what the Prophet ﷺ told the women washing his daughter: "Wash her three or five times or more, if you see it necessary" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1253). The body is then wrapped in simple white sheets called the kafan. Guests do not usually attend this part. See How is a Muslim body washed and shrouded?

Step 2: the funeral prayer

The funeral prayer (salat al-janazah) usually follows one of the daily prayers. The coffin is placed in front and everyone stands in straight rows. The whole prayer is done standing, with no bowing or prostration, and it asks Allah to forgive and have mercy on the person who died. The Prophet ﷺ said that whoever attends until the prayer gets one qirat of reward, and whoever stays until the burial gets two, "like two huge mountains" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1325). See Is the funeral prayer held in the mosque?

Step 3: burial

The Prophet ﷺ encouraged hurrying with the funeral (Sahih al-Bukhari 1315), so burial normally follows the prayer straight away. The body is laid in the grave on its right side, facing the qibla (the direction of Makkah). In Western countries a coffin is often used because cemeteries require it. Mourners may add a handful of soil and then make dua quietly at the graveside. See Why are Muslims buried within 24 hours?

What guests can expect

• Plain, modest clothes. Women often cover their hair at the prayer. Take your shoes off if asked.
• Men and women often stand or sit in separate areas.
• No flowers, music or open-coffin viewing in the Western sense.
• You do not have to join the prayer. Standing quietly at the back is fine.
• Afterwards people give condolences to the family, and neighbours bring food.

When Muslims hear of a death, they say the words Allah teaches in the Quran:

For more on what to wear and how to behave, see What should I wear to a Muslim funeral?