What should a Muslim man wear to a non-Muslim funeral?
In most cases, a dark suit or dark trousers with a plain shirt is right. Choose plain, modest clothes in dark or muted colors, skip silk and gold, and follow any dress request from the family. Attending to comfort a grieving family is a kindness, and what you wear mainly shows respect.
Attending is an act of kindness
When a funeral procession passed, the Prophet ﷺ stood up. He was told it was the funeral of a Jew, and he said, "Is it not a living being (soul)?" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1312). The Quran also encourages kindness and fairness toward people of other faiths who live peacefully alongside you:
So showing up for a friend, colleague or relative is a good deed. What you avoid are the religious rituals of another faith. See Can I attend my non-Muslim grandma's funeral as a Muslim?
What to wear
- Suit or jacket: navy, charcoal or black with matching trousers. A plain dark jumper or blazer with smart trousers is fine for a casual service.
- Shirt and tie: a white or light shirt with a dark tie made of polyester, wool or knit rather than silk, or no tie at all.
- Shoes and socks: clean, dark shoes with dark socks.
- Coverage: shoulders and knees covered, with no shorts, vests or ripped jeans.
- Cold weather: a dark overcoat and a plain scarf.
Some families ask guests to wear bright colors or a favorite team's shirt in memory of the person. Follow the family's request as long as the clothes stay modest. A Muslim service has slightly different customs. See What should I wear to a Muslim funeral?
What to skip
- A gold watch, ring or tie pin, and real silk ties or pocket squares.
- Religious items of another faith, such as a cross or rosary beads.
- Loud logos or slogans, and strong cologne.
Many churches ask men to remove hats, so if you usually wear a cap, ask a family member or leave it off. A religious cap such as a kufi is a personal choice, and most people will understand.
During the service
You can sit or stand quietly with the others, lower your head during prayers and offer a few sincere words of comfort afterward. You do not need to kneel, cross yourself, sing hymns or take communion. A short private prayer for the family's patience and comfort is welcome. If you are unsure whether attending a church service is right for you, there is more detail elsewhere. See Can Muslims go to church?
- A dark suit or smart dark clothes show respect.
- Avoid silk, gold and religious symbols of another faith.
- Cover your shoulders and knees, and follow the family's dress request.
- You can attend quietly without joining the rituals.
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