The Messenger of Allah said: "Whenever you see a funeral (procession), stand up until it goes ahead of you or it is put down."
The Book on Jana'iz (Funerals)
Jami' at-Tirmidhi - Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1042
Hadith Text
The Messenger of Allah said: "Whenever you see a funeral (procession), stand up until it goes ahead of you or it is put down."
Commentary on the Ruling of Standing
This command demonstrates the honor and respect due to the deceased Muslim. Standing serves as a recognition of the sanctity of the soul departing this world and the gravity of death itself. The scholars differ regarding whether this ruling remains obligatory or was abrogated.
Duration of Standing
The phrase "until it goes ahead of you or it is put down" indicates that one remains standing only while the funeral procession is directly before them. Once the bier has passed or has been placed on the ground for burial, the obligation to stand ceases.
Scholarly Differences
Some jurists hold that this ruling was abrogated and standing is recommended but not obligatory, citing the hadith where the Prophet stood for a Jewish funeral but later instructed Muslims not to stand for funerals. Others maintain it remains obligatory for Muslim funerals as a sign of respect for the testimony of faith the deceased carried.
Spiritual Significance
Standing serves as a reminder of mortality and the transient nature of worldly life. It is an act of humility before the divine decree and a physical manifestation of the Muslim community's unity in honoring its members from birth until death.