{"id":7765,"date":"2026-03-13T12:16:53","date_gmt":"2026-03-13T03:16:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/souqtimes.com\/?p=7765"},"modified":"2026-03-13T12:16:53","modified_gmt":"2026-03-13T03:16:53","slug":"how-muslims-shroud-the-deceased-a-simple-and-respectful-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/souqtimes.com\/ja\/culture\/7765\/","title":{"rendered":"How Muslims Shroud the Deceased: A Simple and Respectful Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

In Islam, caring for a person after death is considered a sacred responsibility. One important part of this process is shrouding the body, known in Arabic as <\/span>kafan<\/span><\/i>. This act is not only practical but also deeply spiritual, reflecting dignity, equality, and humility before God.<\/span><\/p>\n

This article explains how and why Muslims shroud the deceased, in a way that is clear and accessible for readers of all backgrounds, including non-Muslims.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The Religious Basis of Shrouding<\/b><\/h2>\n

In Islamic teaching, preparing a deceased person for burial is a communal obligation (<\/span>fard kifayah<\/span><\/i>). This means that if some members of the community fulfill the duty, the rest are absolved of responsibility.<\/span><\/p>\n

The requirement to shroud the deceased comes from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad \ufdfa. In an authentic narration recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, the Prophet instructed his companions regarding a man who passed away:<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWash him with water and sidr (jujube leaves), and shroud him in his two garments.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

This narration clearly establishes that washing and shrouding the deceased are religious obligations.<\/span><\/p>\n

Another narration describes the death of Mus\u2018ab ibn \u2018Umair during the Battle of Uhud. The companions had only a small piece of cloth to cover him. When they covered his head, his feet were exposed, and when they covered his feet, his head became uncovered. The Prophet instructed them to cover his head and place fragrant plants over his feet. This incident demonstrates an important principle: the entire body should be covered if possible, but if resources are limited, one should do the best they can.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Recommended Practices in Shrouding<\/b><\/h2>\n

While shrouding is obligatory, Islamic tradition also provides recommended guidelines:<\/span><\/p>\n

1. Using White Cloth<\/b><\/h3>\n

The Prophet encouraged wearing white garments and using white cloth for burial. White symbolizes purity and simplicity. It reflects the idea that all people return to God without worldly status or decoration.<\/span><\/p>\n

2. Using Three Layers for Men<\/b><\/h3>\n

It is recommended that a male be shrouded in three white sheets. When the Prophet himself passed away, he was wrapped in three plain white Yemeni cloths, without a shirt or turban. This narration is also recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.<\/span><\/p>\n

3. Using Striped Cloth (If Available)<\/b><\/h3>\n

Another narration mentions that if possible, the deceased may be shrouded in a striped Yemeni cloth (<\/span>hibarah<\/span><\/i>). This is recommended but not required.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Intention and Supplication<\/b><\/h2>\n

Before beginning the shrouding process, the person performing it makes an intention in their heart, seeking to fulfill this communal obligation for the sake of God.<\/span><\/p>\n

A common supplication asks God to make the shroud a source of mercy, light, and protection for the deceased. These prayers reflect the belief that even after death, God\u2019s compassion continues.<\/span><\/p>\n

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How a Male Is Shrouded<\/b><\/h2>\n

For a man, the shroud typically consists of three main white sheets and several ties to secure them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Main Components:<\/b><\/h3>\n