What material should be used to cover the niche (*lahd*)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
Bricks (*labin*) should be placed to cover the niche, and the gaps should be sealed with clay so that soil does not enter. If reeds (*qasab*) are used instead of bricks, it is also good, as Al-Sha'bi reported seeing the Muhajirun favoring this for the Prophet's (peace be upon him) grave. Ahmad initially favored bricks but later leaned towards preferring reeds. The most authentic narrations from Abu Abdullah (Ahmad) favor bricks, citing Sa'd's narration, as Sa'd was present while Al-Sha'bi was not.
Supporting text
Wood is disliked for this purpose under all circumstances, though it is permissible if necessity dictates and no other material is available. If bricks are unavailable, reeds, straw (*hashish*), or whatever is possible should be used to cover the niche before pouring soil over it.