The short answer
When a Muslim dies, the body is washed by family members or volunteers of the same sex, wrapped in plain white cloth, and brought for the funeral prayer, salat al-janazah, a short prayer said standing, without bowing or prostration. Burial follows as soon as possible, ideally within a day, with the body laid on its right side facing Mecca. Cremation is not practised and coffins are used only where required.
A little more context
Mourning is quiet. Loud wailing is discouraged; tears are not. Visitors come to the family for three days, bring food, and offer condolences; a common phrase is “to God we belong and to Him we return”. If you attend as a non-Muslim, dress modestly, stand respectfully during the prayer, and offer your sympathy; you will be welcome.
Sources & further reading
- Qur’an 2:155-156 Patience in loss: to God we belong and to Him we return.
- Sahih al-Bukhari 1315 Hasten with the funeral.
- Sahih Muslim 1631 Three things that continue after death.
Original introductory summary, not a direct scripture translation. Prepared 21 October 2026. Qualified human religious review is pending. About our editorial approach.