At the All Dulles Area Muslim Society  Funeral Services (ADAMS), we strive to serve our community with compassion and dignity during times of loss. In Islam, death is understood as a transition from this life to the next. It is a reminder of the Hereafter and an opportunity to pray for forgiveness and mercy for the deceased.

Islamic funeral rites emphasize both spiritual reflection and communal support. At ADAMS, we are honored to assist families in following the traditions and practices outlined by our faith, ensuring they are carried out promptly and respectfully.

One of the key principles in Islamic funeral practice is swift burial, ideally within 24 hours. As a result, there is no wake, viewing, or extended visitation. Upon confirmation of death, the body is washed (ghusl), shrouded (kafan), and prepared for the Janazah (funeral prayer). This process is carried out by trusted family members or designated individuals of the same gender, with great care and dignity.
The body is then brought to the masjid or designated prayer area for the Salat al-Janazah. This prayer is brief, performed standing, and includes supplications for the deceased and all Muslims. Following the prayer, the body is transported to the burial site for internment.

At the gravesite, the deceased is placed facing the Qiblah (toward Mecca). It is common practice for attendees to participate by placing a few handfuls of earth into the grave. While customs may vary, it is traditional in some communities for only men to attend the burial, though this is not a strict requirement.

Islamic teachings emphasize respect for the human body even after death. As such:

• Cremation is strictly prohibited.
• Embalming and autopsies are discouraged unless legally required.
• The deceased should not be transported long distances, to avoid unnecessary delay or disturbance.
• The body must remain covered at all times with a clean white sheet.

Islam encourages emotional expression but within the bounds of dignity and patience. Crying is permitted, but loud wailing, self-harm, or expressions of despair are discouraged.

Following burial, it is customary for community members to visit the family, offer prayers, and provide meals. The mourning period typically lasts three days, during which friends and neighbors often bring food to support the grieving family. Widows observe a longer period of mourning, generally four months and ten days (‘iddah), during which they stay mostly at home and refrain from festive activities.

When a loved one is nearing death, it is recommended that family and close companions be present to offer comfort and spiritual support. Remind the individual gently of Allah’s mercy and help them recite the Shahada (La ilaha illallah – There is no god but Allah), if possible.

Make du’a (supplication) for an easy passing and forgiveness. After the soul departs, say:

“Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un”
(Indeed, to Allah we belong and to Him we shall return.)

Then, cover the body respectfully and begin funeral preparations promptly.

Once death has been confirmed:

1. Close the eyes and mouth of the deceased.
2. Cover the body completely with a clean white cloth.
3. Contact the ADAMS Funeral Services team immediately for assistance.
4. Notify close relatives and begin making arrangements for ghusl, shrouding, prayer, and burial.

ADAMS is here to guide and coordinate every step in accordance with Islamic guidelines and local regulations.

When contacting ADAMS Funeral Services, please be prepared with the following:

• Full name of the deceased
• Current location (home, hospital, hospice)
• Date and time of death
• Date of birth
• Address
• Social Security Number (for paperwork)
• Phone and email contact of next of kin
• Any special instructions regarding the person(s) who should perform ghusl or be involved in the arrangements

Please note:

• If death occurs early in the morning (before 8 AM), same-day burial may be possible.
• Deaths occurring later in the day may result in next-day burial due to cemetery scheduling, transportation, and preparation time.
• Cemeteries are typically closed on Sundays, and limited hours may apply on Saturdays.
• Janazah prayers are typically held after Dhuhr (1:30 PM during daylight savings, 12:30 PM otherwise).
• On Fridays, Janazah is held after the second Jumu’ah prayer.
• Ghusl is usually performed in the late morning.

Our funeral services team is here to help you navigate this process with care, efficiency, and full alignment with Islamic principles. We are honored to serve our community in this sacred responsibility and encourage you to reach out with any questions or immediate needs.
To request funeral support or guidance, please contact:

ADAMS Funeral Services
📞 571-222-6066
📧 funerals@adamscenter.org
🌐  Funeral – All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS)