What is the ruling on applying perfume (dhareerah/musk/camphor) to the deceased?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
It is recommended to apply pulverized perfume (dhareerah) to the joints and folds (maghabin) of the deceased, such as the bending points of the knees, armpits, and the roots of the thighs, as these areas accumulate dirt. Furthermore, it is recommended to apply musk and camphor to the spots of prostration (forehead, palms, knees, and soles of the feet) because they are noble limbs. This practice is likened to preparing a bride, supported by the report that the Prophet, peace be upon him, commanded, 'Do with your deceased as you do with your brides.' Ibn Umar used to treat the folds and hinges of the deceased with musk. Ahmad permits mixing camphor with dhareerah.
Supporting text
Regarding whether musk should be sprinkled or smeared onto the deceased, there is flexibility: Ibn Umar is reported to have sprinkled it, and also to have smeared it. Ibn Sirin smeared a person entirely with musk, while Ibrahim al-Nakha'i stipulated that the funerary perfume (hanut) should be placed specifically on the bones of prostration.