Ibn 'Abbas said that a piece of red stuff was put in the grave of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ).
The Book of Prayer - Funerals
Sahih Muslim 967 - Commentary by Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani
Textual Analysis
The narration from Ibn 'Abbas regarding the placement of red cloth in the Prophet's grave is authenticated through sound chains of transmission. The term "red stuff" (hamrah) refers to a piece of red-colored fabric, likely woolen, commonly available during that era.
Juridical Ruling
This practice falls under the category of permissible acts (mubah) rather than recommended ones (mustahabb). Scholars of the Maliki and Shafi'i schools consider this a specific case pertaining solely to the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) due to his unique status. The majority opinion holds that placing cloth in graves is not part of the general Islamic funeral rites for ordinary Muslims.
Wisdom and Context
The wisdom behind this action may include honoring the sanctity of the Prophet's resting place and distinguishing it from ordinary graves. Some commentators suggest it served to mark the burial spot during construction of the chamber. This should not be confused with contemporary innovations of decorating graves, which the Prophet (ﷺ) explicitly prohibited.
Practical Application
Modern Muslims should follow the established funeral rites without adding this practice, as it was not reported for any other companion or Muslim. The authentic sunnah emphasizes simplicity in burial, avoiding extravagance and maintaining equality among the deceased in their final resting places.