Perseverance — Page 95
Part II – My Life as a Muslim 95 companions ra who the Promised Messiah as had mentioned in his books, and the presidents of the different organizations within the Jam ā ‘at. All of the members that were serving were given a chance (if I have omitted any groups, it is my mistake because all were given a chance). Of all the old companions, Dr. Muft i Sa diq was not present because he had come the day before and enquired about the jan ā zah. When he was told it would take place in the cemetery and would begin at 5 o’clock in the morning, Dr. Sa diq said, “Because of my weak sight and body, I will say the jan ā zah here. God hears the prayers everywhere. ” All the time Hazrat S a hib was carrying the casket he was reciting the Dur ū d 30 and the Holy Qur’ ā n. When the casket reached the site where the jan ā zah was to be offered, Huzoor ra made a check to see if the coffin was straight facing towards the qiblah or not. The check showed that it was straight. Huzoor ra led the jan ā zah and then the coffin was taken to the grave. There were two graves dug. Huzoor ra looked at them both and picked one for the burial. At the bottom of the grave there was sand and they began to lower the casket into the grave. When they began to do this, Huzoor ra kissed the coffin. Other family members did as well. All the while he was reciting the Holy Qur’ ā n. When the casket reached the bottom of the grave, wet sand was placed around the casket, and then dry sand on top of it. Lastly, dirt 30 This is a prayer in which peace and blessings are invoked for the Holy Prophet sa and his followers, just as they were bestowed upon Abraham as and his people. [Writer]