Muslim burial procedures are strongly founded in religious traditions, with a distinct structure designed to honor the deceased. These customs include a quick burial, minimal grave markings, and the use of natural materials to ensure the body is returned to the ground in a respectful manner.

Funeral (Janazah) Principles in Islam

Islam guides Muslims through life and death using rulings from the Qur’an, the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) traditions (referred to as Sunnah), and Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh). Death is acknowledged as an inevitable part of one’s soul, with specific practices to honor the deceased. The Qur’an reminds believers of death’s certainty and the afterlife’s promise:

Every soul will taste death. And you will only receive your full reward on the Day of Judgment. Whoever is spared from the Fire and is admitted into Paradise will ˹indeed˺ triumph, whereas the life of this world is no more than the delusion of enjoyment.
(Quran, Surah Al-Imran: 185)

Islamic funeral practices, outlined in five stages, emphasize swift burial, respect, and minimal disturbance to the body, including many elements suggested for a green burial. 

1. Confirmation and Washing of the Body: After confirming death, the deceased is cleansed on an inclined platform. Rituals like ablution are performed using clean, preferably scented, warm water, while ensuring modesty with proper covering.

2. Shrouding of the Body: Men are wrapped in three pieces of white cloth, women in five, with specific layers and sequences to maintain dignity even after burials.

3. Congregational Prayer: A prayer seeking pardon for the deceased follows, held at the masjid and attended by as many Muslims as possible for greater rewards.

4. Funeral Procession: The body is carried calmly and respectfully to the cemetery, with mourners walking in silence, avoiding music or excessive weeping.

5. Burial: Graves are simple, facing the Qiblah, with the body placed on its right side. Elaborate grave markings and rituals are avoided to maintain humility. The burial occurs locally and as soon as possible, with coffins used only if required by local laws.

Islam discourages the long-distance transportation of the deceased, preserving environmental resources otherwise spent in transportation. Not only does this reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transport, but it also additionally reinforces a sense of community within the local environment. Likewise, Islamic funeral practices discourage playing music during processions, thereby reducing noise pollution and maintaining the solemnity of the occasion. 

The conservation of resources extends to the burial site. Islam emphasizes avoiding the use of coffins, cement for plastering and building sophisticated tombs. This promotes natural decomposition while supplementing the soil, supporting the local ecology and aiding the survival of other vital species. Beyond the important value to the environment, these hybrid practices also hold significant symbolic meaning. Demonstrating a profound recognition for the interconnectedness of life and the environment, and understanding even in death, the effect on the planet is profound.

How Other Burial Practices Compare

China, the world’s most populous country, had nearly six million bodies cremated in 2021, burned in 7,000 thousand crematories in the country. This translates to about 58% of the deaths ending in cremation. This widespread cremation process greatly exacerbates the emission of many kinds of hazardous air pollutants (HAPs), further highlighting concerns about air quality in the region and health risks to the local population. A thorough emission data collection of these pollutants was created for the period 1990-2012, and future emissions patterns up to 2030 are estimated and according to the analysis, overall emissions would continue to rise steadily. Furthermore, HAP emissions are projected to increase by 3% annually until 2030.

Read More: Reclaiming Zuhd: Embracing Minimalism in a Wasteful World

The burial of caskets with arsenic-treated wood and formaldehyde-based embalming fluids can also further harm the environment. Arsenic and formaldehyde can leak into ground water, affecting aquatic life and risking polluting drinking water. Even the most basic of Western burial processes run the risk of harming the environment. This differs vastly from objects Islam promotes using during burials. Ḥanūṭ has been used in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), referring to the use of oil or natural ingredients to cleanse and slow the decomposition process.  The mixture could have ingredients like lime, sandalwood, camphor, and other plant oils. Muslims also do not typically use caskets at all, many of which have been treated with harmful chemicals. Today some Muslims use a casket-like box to carry the body to and from the burial site, but typically refrain from putting the box underground.

In order to continue the commonality Muslims have in burial processes, there must be intentionality behind preserving the tradition and ensuring any new materials introduced to the process coincide with Islamic law.

How Can Islamic Burials be Made to be More Green?

One of the most encouraging developments in the field is the use of biodegradable shrouding materials. In recent years, some newer shrouding practices often involve materials that are not environmentally friendly, such as the rise of synthetic fabrics replacing natural ones that are biodegradable. Materials like cotton offer an alternative that supports both traditional and ecological values. 

Read More: 10 Must-Reads on Climate, Environment & Islam

A natural fiber, cotton decomposes more readily in the soil, minimizing the environmental impact of the burial process. The principle of simplicity in Islamic funerals also extends to this process. Every Muslim, regardless of social status, is shrouded in plain white cloth, devoid of sewing, cosmetics, or jewelry. This uniformity highlights equality and removes the environmental impact linked to creating and disposing of elaborate burial clothing. The use of these plain, unadorned shrouds ensures that the decomposition process is unhindered, facilitating the natural return of the body to the earth.

Involving Communities In Keeping the Tradition of Islamic Burials Alive

Change, even for environmental benefits, can be met with resistance, especially within communities deeply rooted in tradition. Educating the community about the environmental impact of current practices and the benefits of sustainable alternatives is crucial. Religious leaders and scholars play a pivotal role in this, as their endorsement can significantly influence community acceptance. Ensuring that any changes are in strict accordance with Islamic principles is vital to maintaining religious observance and community trust.

As modern environmental concerns grow, adapting these traditional methods while ensuring community acceptance and adherence to Islamic principles is essential. By balancing tradition with sustainability, Islamic burial rituals provide a meaningful example of how cultural and religious practices can contribute positively to environmental stewardship.

Additional research by Halima Salah.

The post The Soulful Elegance of Islamic Green Burial Practices appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

1,845,045 pilgrims visited Saudi Arabia in total in 2023, emphasizing the significance of sustainable efforts to lessen the pilgrimage’s negative environmental effects. Throughout the year, the Makkah landfill gets about 2,750 tonnes of waste per day on average; during the Hajj season, this amount increases to approximately 4,706 tonnes per day. 

As the number of pilgrims increases, Makkah is predicted to produce 44 million tonnes daily within the twenty years that follow. Amid the community togetherness and spiritual dedication that the Hajj offers, pilgrims have a chance to adopt sustainable practices and reduce their environmental footprint. Whether in the busy streets of Makkah or the quiet plains of Arafat, adopting eco-friendly practices can improve one’s spiritual experience while also helping to protect the environment. 

To promote sustainability and environmental stewardship throughout this holy journey, we examine practical methods for pilgrims to minimize plastic waste along their pilgrimage path in this book.

5 Tips for Reducing Waste at Hajj

1. Reusable Water Bottles: Packing a reusable water bottle is one of the most efficient approaches to reduce plastic waste during Hajj. Pilgrims can invest in high-quality, long-lasting bottles made of materials like glass, BPA-free plastic or stainless steel. Pay attention to lightweight and easy-to-transport bottles, with a secure lid to prevent leaks while commuting. considering the hot climate and physical exertion involved in Hajj, ensure that the bottle is big enough to hold enough water for the day. Remember to refill your bottle from the safe water sources provided along the pilgrimage route to make sure the water is safe to consume.
2. Reusable Bags: Bringing reusable bags is essential for reducing plastic waste while shopping for groceries and souvenirs during Hajj. Choose lightweight, foldable bags crafted from durable materials including cotton or recycled polyester. Choose bags with long handles for easy travel and consider bags with compartments or pockets to organize your possessions. Using reusable bags will substantially decrease your consumption of single-use plastic bags and waste during your pilgrimage journey.
3. Eco-Friendly Toiletry: Choosing environmentally friendly toiletries is an essential next step in cutting the amount of plastic waste during the Hajj. Consider toiletries that come in refillable or biodegradable containers instead of products that are packaged in single-use plastic containers. To steer clear of using plastic bottles and packaging, look for solid soap, shampoo, and conditioner bars. To further mitigate your impact on the environment, pick natural and eco-friendly toiletry items composed of sustainable materials.
4. BYOC (Bring Your Own Cutlery): Using reusable cutlery and food containers when eating on the go or during pilgrimages is a simple way of reducing plastic waste. Bring sturdy, lightweight cutlery, like spoons, knives, and stainless steel forks. If you like, include a reusable straw. To make storage and transportation straightforward, think about purchasing a small travel cutlery set that comes in a convenient carrying case. In order to avoid using disposable packaging or containers, you should also pack meals or store leftovers in compact containers or bento boxes.
5. Say No to Straws: During Hajj, reducing plastic waste can be achieved by simply but effectively refusing plastic straws. Decline plastic straws when placing drink orders; instead, request paper straws or none at all. If you have a reusable straw, think about bringing one made of silicone, bamboo, or stainless steel. To keep your reusable straw sanitary and spotless while traveling, place it in a tiny carrying case or purse.

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The post Practical Solutions for a Waste-Free Hajj appeared first on Muslim Climate Watch.

Our Guide to Sustainable Wudu

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drink from sunrise to dusk. This fasting from water offers believers a special chance to reflect on the worth of this valuable resource. It promotes moderation and conservation techniques by fostering consciousness toward water consumption.

“And Allah sends down rain from the sky, giving life to the earth after its death. Surely in this is a sign for those who listen”
(Al-Quran, Surah Nahl 16:65)

Muslim communities around the world are struggling with the severe effects of water scarcity in their daily lives, made worse by rising temperatures due to climate change. This crucial means of survival is frequently at the core of many issues throughout the global south. Muslim-majority populations are particularly impacted by this environmental issue, as many areas experience diminishing water supplies, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and poor infrastructure. 

Access to clean water for agriculture, sanitation, and drinking is a recurring challenge in both rural and urban areas, aggravating socioeconomic inequality and threatening public health. Floods, droughts, and irregular rainfall patterns are just a few examples of extreme weather occurrences that are a result of climate change and a deranged water cycle. Increased hydrological phenomena result from the disruption of the water cycle brought on by rising global temperatures.

The Hadith and the Holy Quran instill in those who follow the values of social justice and equity. This extends to the preservation of the planet’s natural resources, especially water conservation. Water is a communal resource and a human right, according to Islam. This is highlighted in the following Quranic Verse:

“It is He who sends down rain from the sky; from it is drink and from it is foliage in which you pasture [animals].”
(Al-Quran, Surah Nahl, 16:10)

Furthermore, the following verse gives humanity instructions not to waste: 

“O Children of Adam, eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
(Al-Quran, Surah al Araaf, 7:31)

In addition to being appreciated for its ability to support life, water is also necessary for a Muslim’s everyday existence. Believers must complete washing before every prayer five times a day. The completion of this religious washing before prayer represents the accomplishment of physical and spiritual purity. A Hadith recounted by Abu Huraira states that ablution is a prerequisite for the acceptance of any prayer. 

The way that Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) carried out the customary ablution serves as an example of the logical approach to sustainable water use. The guidelines show us that even if we have access to a river, we should use as little water as possible when performing ablutions (wudu). This is a magnificent example of the concept of water conservation:

“Do not waste even if performing ablution on the bank of a fast-flowing large river.”
(Al Thirmidhi)

The Prophet (pbuh) himself would perform ablution with just one mudd of water (equivalent to ⅔  kilograms= ⅔ litres ) (Sahīh al-Bukhari, Vol. 1, Book 4, Hadith 200).

Steps for Making Sustainable Wudu (Ablution)

Using a cup for wudu can be a simple yet effective way to conserve water while fulfilling religious obligations. Here are some practical tips for using a cup for wudu:

• Pick the Correct Size Cup: Choose a cup that can accommodate enough water to perform ablution efficiently and with minimal waste. A cup that holds 500–600 ml is adequate.
• Pre-fill the Cup: Fill the cup halfway full of water before beginning wudu. This lessens the chance of over-pouring and makes estimating how much water you’ll need for each stage easier.
• Use Water Wisely: Consider how much water you use for each wudu step, measuring it out carefully from the cup. To meet the criteria, use just enough water, being careful not to splash or spill too much.
• Carry Out Actions Sequentially: Adhere to the Islamic teachings’ specified order for doing the ablution ritual. This includes washing one’s hands, mouth, nose, face, arms, head, and feet. With each stage, carefully pour water from the cup to ensure complete covering while using as little water as possible.
• Reuse Water Whenever Possible: Utilize any water left in the cup after making wudu by using it for cleaning or watering plants. This method reduces waste and optimizes the use of water.
• Work on Your Precision: To avoid an excessive water flow, practise pouring with a steady hand and a regulated method. To minimize needless spills, try to apply water directly onto the surfaces that need to be cleaned.
• Regular Maintenance: To guarantee hygienic use, keep the cup spotless and clear of debris. After every use, give the cup a thorough rinse and put it somewhere dry and clean.
• Educate Others: Bring attention to the significance of water conservation in your community. Urge fellow worshippers to embrace the use of cups for wudu.

You can satisfy religious duties and express concern for the environment by implementing these suggestions into your daily wudu regimen.

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