Preparing for Death (Part 9)

Question: Is it allowed to gather at the house of the deceased to offer condolences? Answer: This practice is considered an innovation that has spread among many Muslims. Gathering for condolences in a specific place—such as the house, cemetery, or masjid—setting up tents, holding feasts, and providing food for visitors is not prescribed. Jareer ibn Abdullāh Al-Bajali (may Allāh be pleased with him) reported that they would visit the family of the deceased and prepare food for them. This narration is recorded by Imam Ahmad with an authentic chain. However, preparing food and gathering people for condolences is derived from niyāḥah (lamentation or wailing), which is considered one of the major sins. It is sufficient to visit the grave or the house to offer condolences and then depart, or to convey condolences by phone or other means. The customary gatherings in many countries create additional problems beyond being prohibited. They place unnecessary burdens on the family of the deceased, involve financial strain, and often lead to wastefulness. Therefore, these practices are discouraged and impermissible. And Allāh knows best. --- Question: Is it allowed to slaughter an animal after the death of a person and distribute the meat? Answer: This practice is common in many countries, but it is an innovation. Some slaughter animals after a death and distribute the meat or invite people to partake. This is not established by the Salaf and is therefore not permissible. The proper approach is to avoid such innovations. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever introduces into our matter something that is not from it, it is rejected." Slaughtering is an act of worship meant to draw one closer to Allāh. Allāh says: "Say: My prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allāh, Lord of the worlds, who has no partner; this is what I am commanded, and I am of the Muslims." Slaughtering must be performed for Allāh alone. Using it as a ritual connected to a death constitutes an innovation. Those who perform such slaughter for a deceased person are engaging in a prohibited innovation and may impose unnecessary burdens. This can be particularly difficult for the poor, who may incur debt or overextend themselves. It often leads to excessive waste, as multiple animals may be slaughtered unnecessarily. Such practices are therefore prohibited and strongly discouraged. And Allāh knows best.