Source:
Fatāwā Muḥammadiyyah, Vol. 1, Page 560
Question:
After the death of a prominent person, condolence gatherings (taʿzīyatī ijlāṣ) are often organized at various places where tributes are paid to the deceased. What is the ruling of Sharīʿah regarding such gatherings?
Answer:
Al-ḥamdu lillāh, waṣ-ṣalātu was-salāmu ʿalā Rasūlillāh, ammā baʿd!
◈ During the era of Khair al-Qurūn (the best generations), there is no evidence of condolence gatherings (taʿzīyatī ijlāṣ) or condolence resolutions (taʿzīyatī qarār-dād).
◈ In that period, communication and media facilities were not available, so such assemblies were nonexistent.
◈ However, in the present age, if such gatherings are held without any political motives or elements of flattery, and merely as an expression of sympathy or respect, then apparently there is no harm in it.
◈ Condition: The deceased’s qualities and achievements must not be exaggerated or described in an unrealistic manner. Otherwise, it may fall under the prohibited practice known as “Naʿy al-Mamnūʿah” — the impermissible form of public mourning and eulogy.
◈ Furthermore, continuing such gatherings for months or years has no basis in Sharīʿah.
هٰذَا مَا عِندِي وَاللّٰهُ أَعْلَمُ بِالصَّوَابِ
This is what I hold to be correct, and Allah knows best what is right.
