Chapter on Guiding the Dying, Positioning Them at Death, Procedures for Their Final Moments, Washing Them, and Placing Them in Shrouds

Ahmad bin Muhammad narrated from Ali bin Al-Hakam, from Ibn Bukayr, from Zurara, who said: A son of Ja’far became critically ill while Abu Ja’far عليه السلام was sitting in a corner. Whenever someone approached the child, he said: "Do not touch him, for he only grows weaker. He is at his weakest in this state, and whoever touches him in this condition adds to his distress." When the boy passed away, Abu Ja’far عليه السلام ordered that his eyes be closed and his jaw tied. Then Imam عليه السلام said: "We are permitted to grieve as long as the command of Allah سبحانه وتعالى has not yet come. But when the command of Allah سبحانه وتعالى descends, we have no choice but to submit." Imam عليه السلام then requested oil, applied it to himself, used kohl, and called for food. He ate along with those who were present and said: "This is the beautiful patience (sabr al-jamil)." After that, Imam عليه السلام ordered the body to be washed, and Imam عليه السلام put on a silk robe, a silk cloak, and a silk turban. Imam عليه السلام then went out and led the funeral prayer for the deceased.