The Book on Jana'iz (Funerals)

Jami' at-Tirmidhi - Hadith 1043

Hadith Text

The Messenger of Allah said: "Whenever you see a funeral (procession), stand up (for it). Whoever follows it, then do not sit down until it is put down."

Commentary on Standing for Funerals

The command to stand for funeral processions demonstrates respect for the deceased and acknowledges the solemnity of death. This standing serves as a reminder of mortality and the transient nature of worldly life.

Scholars differ regarding whether this standing is obligatory or recommended. The majority hold it to be recommended (mustahabb) based on later narrations where the Prophet (peace be upon him) stood for a Jewish funeral but subsequently instructed Muslims not to stand for non-Muslim funerals.

Prohibition Against Premature Sitting

The instruction not to sit until the bier is placed on the ground applies specifically to those accompanying the funeral. This ensures continuous respect throughout the burial proceedings and prevents any appearance of haste or disrespect toward the deceased.

This practice maintains the dignity of the funeral rites and reflects the Islamic emphasis on honoring the dead as they transition to the afterlife.

Legal Rulings Derived

Standing is recommended for Muslim funerals when the procession passes by, but not obligatory.

One should not stand for non-Muslim funerals based on the abrogating narration.

Those following the funeral should remain standing until the bier is placed at the gravesite.

These rulings reflect the balance between showing respect for the deceased and maintaining proper Islamic distinctions.