Allah’s Messenger said (Allah bless him and give him peace): “You should acquire white clothes, so that your living ones may wear them, and you can shroud your deceased in them, for they are among the best of your clothes.”
The Excellence of White Garments
The Prophet's instruction to acquire white garments demonstrates their superiority in both worldly and spiritual matters. White clothing reflects purity, simplicity, and luminosity - qualities that align with the Islamic emphasis on spiritual cleanliness.
Dual Purpose Wisdom
The wisdom behind using white garments for both the living and deceased reveals the seamless integration of life and death in Islamic consciousness. What serves the living in dignity should likewise honor the deceased in their final journey.
This teaching eliminates extravagance in burial practices and establishes uniformity in Muslim burial rites, preventing class distinctions even in death.
Spiritual Symbolism
White symbolizes the pure fitrah (natural disposition) with which Allah created humanity. Just as the pilgrim wears white ihram to stand equal before Allah, the deceased is wrapped in white, returning to their Lord in a state of primordial purity.
The color white also represents the light of guidance and reflects the Prophet's sunnah of moderation in dress while maintaining dignity and cleanliness.
Practical Implementation
Scholars recommend maintaining white garments in one's wardrobe specifically for prayer and potential burial needs. This practice cultivates constant remembrance of death while ensuring preparedness for one's final requirements according to Prophetic guidance.