The Shaykh (Al-Mufid), may Allah سبحانه وتعالى support him, said: “Then the body is wrapped in the outer shroud (Lifafah) by folding its left side over the right and the right side over the left. The same is done with the striped wrap (Hibarah), and its ends are tied at the head and feet. The one responsible for the washing and shrouding of the deceased should first prepare the shroud, sprinkle powdered perfume (Dharirah) on it, and keep it ready. After completing the washing, the body should be transferred to the shroud without delay. If the sprinkling of Dharirah is delayed until after the washing, then it should be applied as described. However, preparing the shroud and its requirements in advance is better. The shrouding should be done while the deceased is positioned facing the Qiblah, as he was during washing. Once the washing is completed, the washer should perform ablution (Wudu) similar to that for prayer and then perform Ghusl, as described earlier in the chapters on ritual baths. Anyone who assisted by pouring water on the deceased and touched the body before washing must also perform Ghusl. However, if they did not touch the body, no Ghusl or Wudu is required unless they invalidate their state of purity through other means, in which case purification is necessary, but not because of pouring water. After completing the washing, shrouding, and embalming, the deceased should be carried to the grave on a bier, and those accompanying him should offer the funeral prayer before burial.” The Shaykh (Al-Mufid), may Allah سبحانه وتعالى support him, said: “This has already been explained in detail, and the funeral prayer will be discussed later in the chapters on prayers, Allah سبحانه وتعالى willing.” The Shaykh (Al-Mufid), may Allah سبحانه وتعالى support him, also said: “It is recommended for those attending the funeral procession to walk behind or beside the bier, not in front of it, because the bier is to be followed, not to follow others.”
Commentary #19