When precisely should the dying person be turned to face the Qibla?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
The turning toward the Qibla should occur when death is certain (*tawaqqun*) or when death is present (*hudur al-mawt*). Turning to face the Qibla is preferred to be initiated before death. This view is held by 'Ata, Al-Nakha'i, Malik, the People of Medina, Al-Awza'i, the People of Sham, and Ishaq. The action is supported by the narration of Hudhayfah commanding 'Face me [to the Qibla]' and the general principle that the best gatherings face the Qibla.
Supporting text
Sa'id ibn al-Musayyab objected to this practice when his companions attempted to turn him to the Qibla, questioning why they were doing so if he had always faced the Qibla throughout his life.