The Role of a Widow in Her Husband’s Funeral: Islamic Perspective
Question: Can a widow attend her husband’s funeral and participate in the funeral prayer?
Answer: It is not permissible for a widow to attend her husband’s funeral or follow his funeral procession. In fact, it is prohibited for all women to follow funeral processions; this is allowed only for men. Additionally, even after the funeral reaches the cemetery, it is not permissible for the widow to participate in her husband’s funeral.
The widow is required to remain in her husband’s home until the completion of her ‘iddah. However, women, including the widow, may perform the funeral prayer at home when the body is present.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail