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for converts and their families

funeral
advice

We’re so sorry if you’ve lost someone. This page explains how to honour a loved one who became Muslim, what happens at a Muslim funeral, and how converts can make sure their own wishes are known.

my relative has passed away
planning ahead
Hands holding prayer beads

if someone has just died

Islam encourages burial as soon as possible. Contact the local mosque or Islamic centre first. They are usually very experienced with funeral arrangements and can guide you through the washing, shrouding and funeral prayer.

Not sure where to start? Message us on WhatsApp.

for families

if your relative became Muslim

respect their wishes and faith

If your loved one converted to Islam, honouring their beliefs in death is one of the most profound ways you can show love and respect. Islamic funeral rites are simple, dignified, and centred around humility before God. If they expressed wishes about having a Muslim burial or ceremony, try to honour that as fully as possible. If they had a will or bequest in place, then try to fulfil it.

connect with the Muslim community

Reach out to the local mosque or Islamic centre. They’re usually very experienced with funeral arrangements and can walk you through what’s needed, including the washing of the body, the shrouding, and the prayer. Even if you’re not Muslim, you’ll likely be warmly welcomed and supported.

grief is universal

Regardless of religion, the pain of losing someone we love is deeply human. Don't feel like you're doing something wrong if the rituals are unfamiliar. Ask questions if you're unsure, people will usually appreciate that you're trying.

the general procedure

In Islam, we are encouraged to hasten the burial process.

  1. The body is washed from head to toe (if possible). There are people who are trained to do this with the proper etiquette in the Muslim community.
  2. Shrouding of the body takes place, usually 3 or more white cotton sheets are used, but other clothing can be used if requested by the deceased.
  3. The body will be taken to a place where the funeral prayer can be performed; the prayer takes no longer than 2 minutes and only involves standing. It is okay if family members and friends want to eulogise the deceased person and look at the body.
  4. The body will be taken to the place of burial and buried.

what to expect

at a muslim funeral

at the funeral

You’re Welcome to Attend

Non-Muslim relatives are generally welcome at the funeral prayer and burial. The prayer is short (2 minutes), done standing (no kneeling or bowing), and focused on asking forgiveness and peace for the deceased. You don't need to say or do anything you're uncomfortable with, your presence itself is a sign of respect. There may be eulogies for the deceased before the prayer but nothing afterwards.

Some form of gender segregation

Especially if the funeral is taking place in the mosque. It's natural for men and women to be in separate areas, this may continue up until the burial. Please check with whoever is organising the funeral if they are implementing segregation or not.

A Quick Procedure

In Islam, we are encouraged to hasten with the burial. Any unnecessary delays with the burial will be avoided.

 

after the funeral

Burial is the only permitted form of resting the body of the deceased in Islam, cremation is considered a form of desecration that would not be permitted. After the funeral, the deceased will be taken to the place of burial immediately. Muslims may gather to recite the Quran and pray for the deceased afterwards. Placing flowers or other plants on the grave is fine and a modest headstone may be used as a marker, however, elaborate structures and edifices over the grave are prohibited in Islam.

Condolences are normal practice amongst Muslims and may last for up to 3 days after the death of the deceased.

planning ahead

If you’re a convert, making your wishes known now means your family can honour them later.

It is of utmost importance that you express your wishes to be buried as a Muslim to your family before dying. Death can come at any time and we should not take it for granted. Giving Power of Attorney to a reliable Muslim or having a will in place will ensure that your last wishes are carried out. Please see the useful links and resources below to help you prepare for this.

make a will online

useful links and resources

Help with funeral costs, wills and legal advice.

WillsConnect - A simple online service to complete your will, partnered with New Beginnings

Ease Muslim Funeral Support - Ease offers financial support to bereaved families across Greater Manchester to bury their loved ones.

Funeral Expenses Payment - You could get a Funeral Expenses Payment (also called a Funeral Payment) if you get certain benefits and need help to pay for a funeral you’re arranging.

Solace UK Will Writing Service - Solace provide a free will writing service for convert women in the UK.

Amine Haque Solicitors - A reliable solicitor who understands your situation can make things easier if you pass away.

Muslim Burial Fund - Offers free support for converts to Islam.

Co-op Funeralcare - You can pay to have a funeral plan in place in the event of your death.

EIC Bereavement Plan - Low yearly payments that can cover the cost of your funeral and burial in the event of any eventuality.

 

These are independent organisations. If you need help finding the right one, message us.

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Send us a message using the form and we’ll get back to you, or message us on WhatsApp.

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