How should the deceased be positioned during washing and applying gentle pressure to the abdomen?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
The washing must be performed over a bier, with the deceased positioned facing the Qibla and sloping towards the feet so that water and whatever exits flows away from the head. The washer must gently bend the deceased, stopping short of a seated position to avoid causing harm. The washer must then pass a hand over the abdomen, applying gentle pressure to expel any impurities so they do not exit later. Water must be poured copiously while passing the hand over the abdomen to wash away anything expelled. It is recommended to have incense nearby to mask any foul odors.
Supporting text
Imam Ahmad held differing views on the timing of the abdominal pressure: one opinion suggests it should not be done in the first washing, only the second; another states it should be done in the third application; and another suggests gentle wiping once in the second application, arguing that the body does not become pliable until it has been touched by water.