What are the obligations of those present during the washing of the deceased?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Funerals

Book 7 · Issue 6 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is recommended that those present lower their gaze from the deceased, except when there is a necessity. This is due to several concerns: the deceased might possess a hidden blemish that should be concealed, an unwelcome occurrence might manifest, or something outwardly reprehensible might appear, leading to public disclosure and disgrace. For this reason, the washer must be trustworthy, pious, and upright, so they may conceal what they observe. A hadith states, 'Let your trustworthy individuals wash your dead,' narrated by Ibn Majah. Another narration states, 'Whoever washes a deceased person and does not reveal what he sees of him, emerges from his sins as the day his mother bore him,' also narrated by Ibn Majah. A narration from Aisha in the Musnad states the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, 'Whoever washes a deceased person, fulfills the trust regarding him, and does not disclose what occurs concerning him, emerges from his sins as the day his mother bore him.' Another narration states, 'The closest to him should be the most knowledgeable among you; if not, then the one you deem to possess piety and trustworthiness.'

Supporting text

Al-Qadi stated that the deceased's guardian may enter as he wishes. However, Al-Khiraqi's statement implies a general prohibition, which likely entails universal application.