5 Things to know about Islamic Funerals

As it not that easy to accommodate Al Mu Min funeral services in Greece, we cover 5 basic points of a funeral that honours tradition, and how a funeral home and help preserve these rituals.

One of the key aspects of our service is the provision of comprehensive funeral planning for Muslim families. We understand that the loss of a loved one is a deeply personal and emotional journey, and we strive to alleviate the burden on the grieving family by handling the logistical and administrative aspects of the funeral process.

1. Transportation is key
From the moment we are entrusted with the care of the deceased, our team springs into action, ensuring that every step is carried out with the utmost respect and attention to detail. Taking into account that the burial must come as soon as possible for the Muslim religion.

2. Rituals
We begin by arranging the transportation of the body to the Muslim mortuary, where the sacred ritual of washing the body (Ghusl) is performed by same-sex family members or our trained staff. Following the cleansing of the body, they will carefully shroud the deceased in the traditional three white sheets (Kafan), placing the hands in a specific manner and securing the shroud with ropes. This meticulous process is not only a reflection of our reverence for the Islamic faith, but also our commitment to honoring the wishes and dignity of the departed.

3. Prayer
Once the body is prepared, the religious members coordinate the funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) at the mosque or another designated location. Here, the Imam, or the eldest male family member, leads the congregation in reciting the solemn prayers, with the body placed in front of the worshippers. This deeply spiritual moment is a testament to the community’s unity in honoring the life of the deceased.

4. Transportation for burial at cemeteries for Muslim religion
After the funeral prayers, we facilitate the transportation of the body to the burial site, often carried by male family members. At the cemetery, the grave is dug in the direction of Mecca, and the body is carefully placed on its right side, facing the holy city. The mourners in attendance then each throw three handfuls of dirt onto the casket, reciting the words “We created you from it, and return you into it, and from it we raise you a second time.” Throughout this entire process, we understand the importance of respecting the Islamic traditions and customs. Our team has established strong connections within the Greek Muslim community, allowing us to navigate the intricate web of regulations, policies, and community organizations with ease. We work closely with Imams, funeral directors, and other key stakeholders to ensure that every aspect of the funeral is carried out in accordance with the faith.

5. Mourning period
Importantly, we also recognize the significance of the mourning period in the Islamic tradition. For the widow, this period lasts for four months and ten days, during which she is expected to wear modest clothing, refrain from moving from the shared home, and abstain from remarrying. For the widower and other family members, the mourning period is typically three days, a time for sharing emotions, preparing for the funeral, and welcoming visitors.

Please call us at 2310 841 530 for more information, or send us an email at funeral@baboulas.gr