Burial of the Dead (جنازة Jināzah or Janāzah)
Introduction
The term Jināzah or Janāzah (Arabic: جنازة) in Islamic context refers to both the bier (the stand used for carrying the coffin) and the entire funeral service conducted for the deceased. This practice is rooted in the teachings and examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and exhibits only minor variations across different Muslim-majority countries.
Etymology
The word “جنازة” (Jināzah or Janāzah) is derived from Arabic, connoting funeral or burial in Islamic terminology. It can be transliterated into Turkish as “Cenaze.”
Ritual Variations
Globally, Islamic funeral rites hold a profound respect for the deceased, yet some cultural variations exist:
- Egypt and Bukhara: The deceased is followed by male relatives and friends, while female mourners trail behind.
- India and Afghanistan: Women typically do not attend funerals, with family and friends of the deceased escorting the bier from behind.
Funeral Service Procedures
The Jināzah prayer is a significant part of the Islamic funeral and typically follows these steps:
- Announcement: A person calls out, indicating the commencement of prayers: “Here begin the prayers for the dead.”
- Formation: Attendees align themselves in odd-numbered rows (3, 5, or 7) facing the Qiblah (direction of Makkah).
- Imam’s Position: For male corpses, the Imam stands at the head; for females, at the waist.
- Prayer Initiation:
- Nīyah: Intentions for the prayer are verbally or mentally pronounced.
- Takbīr: First declaration “Allah is Great” followed by the folding of hands.
- Subḥānaka Recitation:
- A praise recitation glorifying Allah.
- Second Takbīr: Repeated declaration.
- Durūd Recitation:
- A blessing on the Prophet Muhammad and his family.
- Third Takbīr: Another declaration.
- Duʿā: A supplicatory prayer seeking forgiveness for the deceased.
- Fourth Takbīr: Final declaration followed by the greeting Salām (peace and mercy) to the right and then left.
Traditions and Beliefs
Certain traditions and beliefs highlight the spiritual reflections on funerals:
- Prompt Burial: It is recommended to hasten the burial to expedite the soul’s transition to divine judgment or reward.
- Simple Processions: Following the Prophet’s example, many prefer simple, barefoot processions out of respect for the deceased and the angels.
- Respect Across Faith: There is historical evidence suggesting mutual respect for funerals across Abrahamic faiths.
Cultural Practices
Muslim burial customs include some diverse regional practices:
- Grave Layout: The body is typically placed on its right side, facing Makkah.
- Recitation of Quranic Verses: Verses such as Surah Taha (20:57) are sometimes recited.
- Fātiḥah: Attendees recite the opening chapter of the Qur’an at the grave.
- Charitable Acts: Food is given to beggars and religious mendicants in the deceased’s name.
- Visiting the Grave: Relatives often visit on the third day post-burial to recite Quranic verses.
References and Suggestions for Further Studies
- “Modern Egyptians” by Edward William Lane (for cultural comparisons)
- “Funeral Rites in Islam” by Bilal Abdul-Karim (A practical guide)
- “The Big Book of Islamic Funeral Rites” by Faraz Rabbani
Takeaways and Conclusion
The burial of the dead in Islam (جنازة Jināzah or Janāzah) intertwines spiritual sanctity with cultural diversity, reflecting profound respect for the departed and adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. The rituals encapsulate the Islamic principles of humility and charity, ensuring that even in death, the sense of communal and divine obligation is fulfilled.
By adhering to these practices, Muslims continue to honor the dead, much as they respect the living, thereby sustaining a seamless link between faith, tradition, and spiritual duty.
For a deeper understanding, scholars, practitioners, and those interested can delve into the suggested books, which provide both academic and practical insights into these timeless traditions.
