What is the ruling on 'Nadb' (lamentation)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Funerals
Primary text
Nadb is the enumeration of the deceased's virtues and the expressions of loss felt due to their passing, often using vocatives with 'Waw' instead of 'Ya', sometimes augmented with Alif and Haa, such as 'Warajalah' (Oh my helper) or 'Inqita'a dhuhrah' (My back is broken). Some scholars of our school hold that it is disliked (makruh). However, a view narrated from Ahmad, chosen by Al-Khallal and his companion, suggests permissibility for Nadb and Niyah (wailing). This stance is supported by the practice of Wathilah ibn al-Asqa' and Abu Wa'il, who would listen to wailing and weep. Ahmad clarified that when a woman says things similar to what is narrated from Fatimah (like certain supplications), it is not equivalent to Niyah and is permissible.
Supporting text
Evidence supporting the permissibility includes the narration that Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) lamented, saying, 'Oh my father, to whom his Lord drew near,' and, 'Oh my father, to Gabriel I announce his passing,' and, 'Oh my father, he answered the call of his Lord.' Also narrated is that Fatimah placed dust from the Prophet's grave on her eyes and recited poetry mourning him.