In Islam, the funeral service, known as Janazah, is ideally conducted within 24 hours of the deceased’s passing, though exceptions may be made in cases of unexpected death. Islamic law emphasizes the importance of burying the deceased as soon as possible.

At Masjid Ahlis Sunnah, we offer comprehensive funeral services to assist families during difficult times. We help families contact funeral homes and provide support in washing and shrouding the deceased in a fully equipped janaazah room. This service is completely free for anyone who completes our janazah application form.

Before the funeral, the body must undergo a ritual washing (Ghusl) three times and then be shrouded (Kafan) in preparation for burial. Usually, same-sex family members perform the Ghusl.

Once the body is cleaned and shrouded, it is covered with a white sheet and laid upon three large white sheets of material. The body is then wrapped in the sheets and secured with ropes—one tied above the head, two around the body, and one below the feet.

Our goal is to ensure that all aspects of the Janazah process are handled with respect and care, allowing families to focus on their loved ones during this challenging time.

​The deceased’s Family and friends gather in The Masjid’s prayer room to perform Salat al-Janaazah (funeral prayer). All men are required to participate, while women may join if they wish. This prayer is a final act of devotion from the family and community, asking Allah for forgiveness for the deceased.

The funeral service is led by an Imam (Islamic leader) and includes readings from the Qur’an. If you are of a different faith, you are welcome to quietly listen to the prayers and readings.

The funeral prayer follows these steps:

1.No Adhaan or Iqamah: The funeral prayer does not include the usual call to prayer (Adhaan) or the announcement to start the prayer (Iqamah).

2.Position of the Deceased: The deceased is placed with their face directed towards the Ka’bah (the most sacred Masjid in Mecca).

3.Position of the Imam: If the deceased is male, the Imam stands facing the head of the body. If the deceased is female, the Imam stands facing the middle part of the body. The congregation stands in rows behind the Imam.

4.Structure of the Prayer: The funeral prayer consists of standing only, without the usual bows (Ruku) or prostration (Sujood). The funeral prayer consists of nine steps.

     (1) Say first Takbeer (‘Allahu Akbar’) and raise both hands up to your earlobes and then place your right hand over your left hand

     (2) Seek refuge from the Shaytan (devil)

     (3) Recite Surah Al-Fatihah followed by a short surah or part of a surah

     (4) Say second Takbeer. 

     (5) Recite Dua on Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as one does at the end of the prayer

     (6) Say third Takbeer. 

     (7) Make supplication (du’a) for the deceased. There are several recommended supplications from the Prophet (ﷺ).

     (8) Say fourth Takbeer and pause for a little while.

     (9) Then end by saying one Tasleem to the right (‘Assalaamu ‘alaykum wa rahmat-Allaah’).

Attending and participating in the funeral prayer holds great reward. As narrated by Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “Whoever attends a funeral until he offers the (funeral) prayer will have one qiraat of reward, and whoever attends until the burial is done will have two qiraats.” When asked what the two qiraats are, he replied, “Like two great mountains.” (Narrated by al-Bukhari, 1261; Muslim, 945).

This prayer is an important act of kindness and compassion, offering spiritual support to the deceased and their family.