Janazah (What to do when someone passes away)

When someone passes away, Islam emphasizes dignity, speed (within reason), and community support. Practices can differ by country and madhhab, so your local masjid typically coordinates the details.

Immediate steps (family)

1. Contact your local masjid/funeral committee.
2. Inform close family/friends and arrange transport.
3. Follow local legal requirements (hospital paperwork, certificates).

What usually happens

• Ghusl (washing) of the deceased (trained team).
• Kafan (shrouding).
• Salat al-Janazah (funeral prayer).
• Burial and making dua for the deceased.

Salat al-Janazah (what to perform)

• Standing only (no ruku‘ / no sujud).
• Takbirs (commonly 4) with recitations/duas between them.
• Then salam to end (details vary by madhhab).

A simple outline (follow your local imam)

1. Intention (in your heart) and first takbir.
2. Recite Al-Fatihah (common in many teachings).
3. Second takbir, send salawat on the Prophet ﷺ.
4. Third takbir, make dua for the deceased.
5. Fourth takbir, make a brief dua, then end with salam.

Because the exact wording differs across schools, the safest approach is to follow your local imam. If you don’t know the words, you can still stand and make sincere dua quietly.

Important duas

• Say: Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji‘un (Qur’an 2:156).
• Make dua for the deceased, e.g. Allahumma ighfir lahu warhamhu…

See the Duas section for printable versions:
- Loss/patience dua
- Dua for the deceased
- Dua for the family

Etiquette & support

• Offer practical help: rides, food, childcare, phone calls.
• Avoid gossip and speculation.
• Make dua for the deceased and their family.

Important disclaimer

Handling the deceased has detailed rulings (especially for special cases). Always follow your local masjid’s guidance.