Sunnah Method of Bathing and Shrouding the Deceased in Light of Hadith

Author: Muhammad Ismail Sajid (حفظہ اللہ)

Introduction​

The rulings on bathing, shrouding, and burying the deceased date back to Prophet Adam (عليه السلام) and have been elaborated upon in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The process of washing the deceased is a significant and sensitive matter, which is often left to professional attendants. However, Islam designates these responsibilities to the close relatives of the deceased. For the sake of awareness and proper implementation, the correct method based on the Sunnah is outlined below.

The Origin of Funeral Rites: A Hadith from Adam (عليه السلام)​

Said by Ubayy ibn Ka'b (رضي الله عنه):

"When the angels took the soul of Adam (عليه السلام), they washed his body, shrouded him, participated in his funeral prayer, and prepared his grave. After burial, they said, 'O children of Adam! This is the Sunnah for your deceased.'"
[Reference: Nayl al-Awtar, Vol. 4, Pg. 28]

Reflection on the Reality of the Grave​

The narrations teach us to recognize the reality of the grave:

1. The grave was physically identified by the angels.
2. Earth was placed over the grave.
3. The grave was sealed with bricks.

This indicates the significance of accepting the grave's reality and the temporary consequences it holds for reward or punishment.

Bathing the Deceased: Sunnah Guidelines​

Key Guidelines for Washing the Body:​

1. Selection of Washers:
   Two trustworthy and dignified individuals should be chosen to perform the washing, ensuring the confidentiality of the deceased’s condition.
   
   • Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
     "Whoever conceals the faults of a Muslim, Allah will conceal his faults on the Day of Judgment."
     [Bukhari and Muslim]
2. Preparation of Water:
   
   • Use water mixed with lotus (sidr) leaves and warm it slightly.
   • Soap may also be used to ensure cleanliness, as the purpose is purification.
3. Positioning the Body:
   
   • Place the deceased on a slightly elevated platform and arrange for pleasant scents to counter any odor during washing.
4. Covering and Cleaning:
   
   • Cover the deceased’s private areas to maintain modesty.
   • Gently press the abdomen to expel impurities before beginning the wash.
5. Performing Ablution (Wudu):
   
   • Begin with ablution, ensuring not to let water enter the mouth or nostrils. Use a wet cloth or cotton to clean the mouth and nose.
6. Full Wash:
   
   • Wash the right side of the body first, followed by the left side. Use soap and water to clean thoroughly. Repeat the process three, five, or seven times as needed.
7. Final Steps:
   
   • Comb and clean the hair and beard. If the deceased is a woman, her hair should be braided into two or three parts and placed at the back of her head.
   • Use camphor during the final wash, as it is fragrant and repels insects.
8. Reward for Bathing:
   
   • Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
     "Whoever bathes the deceased while covering his faults, Allah will forgive forty years of his sins."
     [Al-Mustadrak by Al-Hakim, Graded Hasan by Al-Zubair Ali Zai]

Shrouding the Deceased: Sunnah Method​

1. Choice of Shroud:
   
   • The Prophet (ﷺ) instructed to use clean, simple shrouds. Over-extravagance in shrouding is discouraged.
   • Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
     "Do not be extravagant in shrouding, as it is destined to decay."
     [Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah]
2. Number of Shrouds:
   
   • For men: Three white cloths (a shirt, a sheet, and a wrap).
   • For women: Five cloths (including a scarf and an additional chest covering).
3. Simplified Practice:
   
   • During scarcity, one or two cloths suffice. For example, Mus'ab ibn Umair (رضي الله عنه) was buried in a single sheet, highlighting simplicity during times of hardship.
     [Bukhari, Hadith 1274]
4. Avoid Writing on Shroud:
   Writing phrases or names on the shroud is an innovation (bid’ah) and disrespectful. Such practices should be avoided.

Conclusion​

The Sunnah emphasizes simplicity and dignity in washing and shrouding the deceased. By adhering to these practices, we fulfill an important religious duty while earning immense rewards. It also reminds us of the temporary nature of life and the eternal significance of preparing for the Hereafter.

May Allah grant us the ability to perform these duties sincerely and according to the Sunnah.

Allah knows best.