10 Checklist to Follow When Someone Passes Away

 

10 Checklist to Follow When Someone Passes Away

 
When someone passes away, it is important to stay calm and follow the necessary steps accordingly.

1. Stay Calm and Composed

Upon receiving the news of a death, remain calm and remember that every soul shall taste death. Seek Allah's guidance and strength to handle the situation appropriately.

2. Close the Deceased’s Eyes

Close both eyes of the deceased and tie the jaw to prevent the mouth from opening. This is based on the hadith:
دَخَلَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ عَلَى أَبِي سَلَمَةَ وَقَدْ شَقَّ بَصَرُهُ فَأَغْمَضَهُ
Meaning: "The Messenger of Allah (SAW) visited the deceased Abu Salamah RA whose eyes were open. Then the Prophet closed them." (Muslim, 920)

3. Loosen the Joints

Gently loosen the joints of both hands and legs, as well as other parts of the body, to facilitate the funeral process.
Recommended Supplication:
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَعَلَى مِلَّةِ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ، اللَّهُمَّ يَسِّرْ عَلَيْهِ أَمْرَهُ، وَسَهِّلْ عَلَيْهِ مَا بَعْدَهُ، وَأَسْعِدْهُ بِلِقَائِكَ، وَاجْعَلْ مَا خَرَجَ إِلَيْهِ خَيْرًا مِمَّا خَرَجَ مِنْهُ
Meaning: "In the name of Allah and upon the teachings of His Messenger. O Allah, ease his affairs, make things easier after this, grant him happiness in meeting You, and make what he is returning to better than what he left behind."

4. Place a Heavy Object on the Stomach

Place a heavy object on the deceased's stomach to prevent bloating, which may distort the appearance.

5. Position the Body Facing the Qibla on a Raised Platform

It is recommended to remove the deceased’s clothing and place them on a bed or elevated surface facing the Qibla. This task should be carried out by the closest family member.

6. Inform the Funeral Management

Immediately contact an experienced funeral management service for guidance and assistance in managing the deceased.

7. Notify a Doctor

Obtain death confirmation from a family doctor or any private doctor. The doctor will conduct an examination and issue an official document.

8. Obtain the Digital Certificate

Once the death is confirmed, the next of kin must file a police report with the doctor's letter to receive the official death certificate in digital format.

9. Plan the Ritual Bath (Ghusl)

Decide on the location for the ritual bath, either at home or Masjid Pusara Aman. Set an appropriate time to avoid unnecessary delays.

10. Arrange Timeline and Notify Relatives

Determine the time for the funeral prayer and the ritual bath to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. Inform family members using the following format:
Sample WhatsApp Message:
*Bismillahirrahmanirrahim*

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un

With deep sadness, we inform you that

{Name},

has returned to the mercy of Allah

on {Day}, {Gregorian Date}, corresponding to {Hijri Date}.

May Allah forgive their sins and grant them a noble place in Jannah.

**The deceased will be brought to the following address:**

{Address}

🕌 **Funeral Prayer**

The funeral prayer will be held at {time}

at {Home/Mosque}

**Contact:**

{Phone Number} {Name} {Relation to the deceased}
 
 
Following these steps properly will help ensure a smooth and organized farewell for the deceased.