Islamic Laws of Death and Burial

Death is the inevitable end to the life of this world, and it is waiting for each person. Just as God Almighty has prescribed a complete plan for every aspect of our lives, from birth through all of life's stages, so has He ordained a set of rules for specific acts that must be carried out when we die. These include not only the recitation of supplications and prayers for the deceased but also physically preparing the body for its permanent interment. These are some of the most important requirements believers must fulfill, because they are a prelude to the eternal next life. Indeed, we complete these acts out of obedience to God and as a reminder to those who survive the deceased that they will eventually follow. This booklet describes the Islamic laws that related to the deceased, before, during, and after death. It includes concise information on matters that must be fulfilled, prohibited acts, and even recommended and detestable practices. Lastly, this work addresses contemporary issues like how to proceed with the rituals of death and burial when face with various practical constraints (as might be encountered in the West) and even provides rulings on how to deal with a deceased body infected with a contagion. Thus, it is the objective of this booklet to provide all the necessary information so believers can fulfill their obligations to God and each other when death occurs.

This book was published by Imam Mahdi Association of Marjaeya (I.M.A.M.), Inc.