Wisdom of The Holy Prophet — Page 64
64 WISOOM OF THE HOLY PROPHET RESPECT FOR THE DEAD Allah has create. cl death and life that He may try which cf you is best in conduct. He is the Mighty, the Most Forgiving (67. 3). * * * The H9ly Prophet (peace be on him) said: 1. You are bound to be overtaken by death and then you will be either distressed or happy. 2. When a person dies, all his actions cease except through a charity, the benefit of which is continuous, or a legacy of knowledge which benefits others, or righteous progeny who pray for him. 3. Relate of your dead only that which is good, and refrain from speaking ill of them. 4. Speak not ill of the dead or you will cause pain to the living. 5. Do not sit over a grave, nor face towards it when you are praying. 6. He who joins a funeral procession and takes three turns to help carry the bier has discharged his obligation to the dead. 7. As a funeral procession went by the Holy Prophet (peace be on him) stood up and those with him followed his example. Someone said: Messenger of Allah, this is the funeral cortege of a Jewish woman. He observed: Death is a matter of grief and awe, therefore, when you see any funerai passing you should stand up as a token of respect. Jf • •