Funeral Prayer and Its Educational and Social Aspects (Part One)
Introduction
In Islamic thought, just as a living person holds a special place, personality, and respect, similarly, after death and the transition to the eternal world, the deceased also retains a special status and respect. After death, specific rulings and issues are imposed to ensure that the deceased’s body is honored and their personality is preserved. These rulings include rituals such as Ghusl (washing), Takfin (shrouding), preparing the body for burial, and performing the funeral prayer.
The funeral prayer, which is said for the deceased, embodies the attention of the living towards the dead. This prayer contains many educational and social lessons, as well as wisdom, some of which we will discuss in this short article.
Educational Points
Peace of Mind
Allah’s grace encompasses humanity to such an extent that it is not limited to one’s state of life; it also extends to what happens after death.
Humans who leave this world are generally deprived of performing good deeds; however, there are certain actions that, if carried out by the living after a person’s death, can help alleviate their torment or grant them peace. One of these significant acts is the funeral prayer. In fact, the funeral prayer not only liberates the deceased in some way but also brings peace of mind to their survivors.
The family or loved ones of the deceased, by performing the funeral prayer alongside other Muslims, find solace in their hearts. They recognize others as partners in their suffering and grief, which alleviates their sense of isolation in mourning.
Consideration About the Hereafter
Observing the funeral and participating in the funeral prayer encourages individuals to reflect on the affairs of the hereafter, which awaits every person, and prepares them for it.
Thinking about the Hereafter and the Day of Judgment is one of the significant commandments emphasized by Allah Almighty. A person can structure their life plans by contemplating the implications of the Day of Judgment and the Last Day. The hidden lessons in Islamic teachings regarding the funeral prayer prompt individuals to reflect on their current lives.
Reflecting on the afterlife of others inspires a person to arrange their present life with order and purpose, making them increasingly prepared for the hereafter.
Through the performance of the funeral prayer, individuals come to the realization that death could occur at any moment; therefore, they should prepare themselves and contemplate their afterlife while there is still time.
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