Burial vs. Cremation in Islam: What Every Muslim Should Know

Key Takeaways

• Islam Prohibits Cremation – Cremation is forbidden in Islam as it dishonours the sanctity of the human body and goes against the belief in resurrection.
• Burial Reflects Islamic Values – Burial symbolises humility, dignity, and the natural return to the earth, following the guidance of the Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad.
• Sacred Funeral Rituals – The Islamic burial process includes Ghusl (ritual washing), Kafan (shrouding), and Janazah (funeral prayer), ensuring respect and spiritual purity.

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult moments, and during such times, knowing how to honour them brings comfort and peace. In Islam, the way a person is laid to rest is not just a cultural practice but a deeply spiritual act, rooted in faith and divine guidance. The question of burial or cremation is not left to personal preference as Islam mandates burial and strictly prohibits cremation. But why is this the case? What makes burial so significant in Islam?

1. Islamic View on Cremation: Why It’s Prohibited

Islam teaches that every human body is a sacred trust from Allah (SWT) and must be treated with honour, even after death. This is why burial or cremation is not a choice in Islam as cremation is strictly forbidden. The Prophet Muhammad discouraged any act that would cause harm to the body, and cremation is considered one of the most severe forms of desecration.

The Qur’an reminds us that humans were created from the earth and will return to it:
“From the earth We created you, and into it, We shall return you, and from it, We shall bring you forth once more.” (Qur’an 20:55)

With cremation, this natural cycle is disrupted, reducing the body to ashes rather than allowing it to return to the earth as intended.

2. The Significance of Burial in Islam

When it comes to burial or cremation, Islamic practices emphasise preservation and dignity. Burial is a final act of care for the deceased, aligning with the Islamic values of humility, respect, and submission to Allah’s will.

Muslim funerals also serve as a reminder of life’s temporary nature. The simplicity of the process, shrouding the body in a plain white cloth and placing it directly in the earth, symbolises equality, as every Muslim, regardless of wealth or status, is laid to rest in the same manner. This reinforces the Islamic belief that all humans will return to their Creator in the same way they came into the world, without material possessions, relying only on their deeds.

3. Burial Rituals in Islam: The Process of Ghusl and Janazah

The process of preparing a Muslim for burial is sacred and must be carried out with utmost care and respect. The first step is Ghusl, the ritual washing of the body, performed by family members or designated individuals. This cleansing process is a sign of purification, ensuring that the deceased meets their Creator in a state of physical and spiritual purity.

Following Ghusl, the body is wrapped in a simple white cloth called Kafan. There are no extravagant coffins or decorations—Islamic burial traditions focus on humility and simplicity. Once shrouded, the community gathers to perform the Janazah (funeral prayer), seeking Allah’s mercy for the departed soul.

Unlike cremation, where the body is turned to ashes, Islamic burial ensures that the body is gently placed in the earth, following the natural cycle of creation. Family members and the Muslim community participate in lowering the body into the grave, reinforcing the collective responsibility of honouring the deceased. The burial is then completed with prayers and supplications, asking Allah to grant the departed soul peace and entry into Jannah (Paradise).

4. Cultural Perspectives on Burial or Cremation in Muslim Communities

Islam funeral traditions remain steadfast across the world, even in non-Muslim-majority countries where cremation is more common. In Singapore, for example, Muslims continue to follow traditional burial rites despite land constraints. Dedicated Muslim cemeteries ensure that burial remains accessible, allowing families to uphold Islamic principles even in a multicultural society.

While some cultures may view burial or cremation as a matter of personal preference, Islam’s teachings leave no room for ambiguity—burial is the only permissible option. Even in countries where cremation is the norm, Muslim communities work together to ensure proper burial practices are followed. This unity reflects the strong commitment to faith and the importance of preserving Islamic traditions, regardless of geographical or societal influences.

 

In Singapore, a Muslim burial is conducted with care and reverence, following the prescribed funeral rites By understanding the significance of burial and following the prescribed funeral rites, Muslims can honour their loved ones in a way that reflects their faith and devotion to Allah.

At such a difficult time, it is important to have a trusted service provider who understands the significance of Islamic burial rites. Jasabudi Muslim Casket is dedicated to assisting Muslim families in Singapore with professional and compassionate funeral arrangements, ensuring that your loved one’s final journey is conducted with dignity and according to Islamic principles.

Contact us today to know more.