10 Life Lessons from 10 Years as a Muslimah Mortuary Attendant

Death is a certainty. One day, we ourselves will be bathed. Do not be arrogant, do not be disgusted, and do not feel invincible. Every human will go through this moment.

1. Bodily Waste Still Comes Out

Even after death, the body continues to expel waste that has not yet been discharged. The family members will clean it with full respect and love. This is the moment when we completely depend on others.

2. Many Physical Imperfections

During life, we may not realize the many small imperfections in our body. However, after death, every flaw becomes apparent. This serves as a reminder that perfection belongs only to Allah.

3. Preserving the Deceased's Dignity

Islam teaches us to preserve the dignity of the deceased with utmost respect. The private parts of the body, especially the intimate areas, must not be exposed to anyone except those entrusted with the task. This highlights the importance of maintaining dignity until the very end.

4. The Great Reward of Bathing the Deceased

Bathing the deceased is a noble task with great rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said:

"Whoever bathes the deceased and safeguards their trust, Allah will forgive their sins as if they were newly born from their mother." (HR Ahmad, 23908)

5. The Body Will Stiffen

A few hours after death, the body will begin to stiffen (rigor mortis). This reminds us how quickly the physical form loses its strength, leaving only the soul to return to Allah.

6. An Odor Will Develop If Not Managed Quickly

A body that is not taken care of promptly will produce an unpleasant odor. This serves as a reminder that the body is only a temporary vessel destined to return to the earth.

7. The Need to Expedite Burial Arrangements

Islam encourages the prompt management and burial of the deceased. The Prophet SAW said: "Hasten the burial of the deceased." (HR Bukhari, 1315)

8. Our Final Garment Is Only a Shroud

Regardless of one's wealth, in the end, they will be wrapped in a simple white cloth. This reminds us that worldly life is temporary.

9. Tears Will Not Change Destiny

Many family members cry, but the truth is, death is a fate predestined by Allah. What remains is prayer and good deeds.

10. Observing Proper Etiquette Around the Deceased

Many people fail to observe proper etiquette by speaking inappropriately around the deceased. Islam teaches us to guard our speech and honor the deceased with prayers and remembrance.

11. Death Is Inevitable

Every soul will taste death, and no one can escape it. Allah says:

"Every soul shall taste death, and only on the Day of Judgment shall you be paid your full reward." (Surah Ali 'Imran: 185)

Being a mortuary attendant is a valuable reminder that this world is temporary, and the Hereafter is the ultimate destination. Take heed before our turn comes.

10 Life Lessons from 10 Years as a Muslimah Mortuary Attendant 1. Bodily Waste Still Comes Out 2. Many Physical Imperfections 3. Preserving the Deceased's Dignity 4. The Great Reward of Bathing the Deceased 5. The Body Will Stiffen 6. An Odor Will Develop If Not Managed Quickly 7. The Need to Expedite Burial Arrangements 8. Our Final Garment Is Only a Shroud 9. Tears Will Not Change Destiny 10. Observing Proper Etiquette Around the Deceased 11. Death Is Inevitable