What is the proper pace for walking in a funeral procession?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
The proper pace is one that exits the sluggish walking manner of the Jews, as indicated by the saying, 'Be brisk with it, and do not drag yourselves like the Jews with their funerals.' Excessive haste that causes jolting (yemkhudduha) is to be avoided, as it harms those carrying and following, and the deceased cannot be secured. This is supported by the Prophet's (peace be upon him) statement when passing a funeral that was moving excessively: 'Adhere to moderation in your funerals.' Additionally, Ibn Mas'ud reported that when asked about walking with the funeral, the Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: 'Less than trotting (al-khabab).' Ibn Abbas advised regarding the funeral of Maymunah: 'Do not shake her; be gentle, for she is your mother.'