What is the basis for preferring three white, unstitched wrappings for the shroud?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Funerals

Book 7 · Issue 4 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The basis for preferring three white wrappings without a shirt or turban is the authentic narration from Aisha, who stated that the Messenger of Allah was shrouded in three white Yemeni garments (Suhuliyyah), which did not include a shirt or a turban. This narration is the most sound report regarding the shroud of the Prophet. Furthermore, the state of Ihram (pilgrimage restriction), which is the most complete state for the living, prohibits stitched garments, and death is analogous to this state.

Supporting text

The act of clothing Abdullah ibn Abi with the Prophet's Qamis was done either out of respect for his son, Abdullah ibn Abdullah ibn Abi, to seek blessing for his deceased father, or possibly as recompense for Abdullah ibn Abi having clothed Al-Abbas with his Qamis on the day of Badr.