Many Muslims have the noble intention of offering acts of worship, such as reciting the Quran, on behalf of the deceased. While these actions are rooted in love and concern for the departed, it is crucial to examine their validity through the Quran and authentic Hadith. Unfortunately, certain practices, such as reciting the Quran specifically for the deceased, lack direct evidence from Islamic sources. Instead, Islam emphasizes other ways to benefit the deceased.

Why the Practice is Incorrect

1. Absence of Evidence in the Quran and Sunnah:
The Quran does not mention any verse that explicitly commands or encourages reciting the Quran for the deceased as a form of transferring rewards. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his Companions did not perform this act or encourage it. They focused on actions with clear evidence, such as making dua, giving charity, and performing acts of worship on behalf of the deceased.
2. Misunderstanding the Purpose of the Quran:
The Quran was revealed as guidance for the living, to be acted upon, understood, and followed. Allah says:
“This is a Book which We have sent down to you, full of blessings, that they may ponder over its verses, and that those of understanding may take heed.” (Quran 38:29)
Reciting the Quran without acting on its teachings contradicts its purpose and does not fulfill its intended impact.
3. Accountability of Deeds:
Allah emphasizes individual accountability:
“That no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another, and that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives.” (Quran 53:38-39)
This verse highlights that individuals are responsible for their deeds, and the rewards of actions do not automatically transfer to others unless explicitly mentioned in the Sunnah.

What Islam Teaches About Benefiting the Deceased

1. Making Dua (Supplication):
Dua is the most emphasized action in the Quran and Hadith for benefiting the deceased. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“When a person dies, their deeds come to an end except for three: ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, or a righteous child who prays for them.” (Sahih Muslim, 1631)
This Hadith shows the importance of sincere supplication for the deceased as a means to benefit them.
2. Charitable Acts on Behalf of the Deceased:
Acts of charity are explicitly mentioned as a way to benefit the deceased. For example, Sa’d ibn Ubadah (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH) whether charity on behalf of his mother would benefit her. The Prophet replied:
“Yes.” Sa’d said, “I have a garden, and I give it in charity on her behalf.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2760)
3. Fulfilling Unfulfilled Obligations:
If the deceased had missed certain obligations, such as fasting or paying zakat, these can be fulfilled on their behalf. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever dies owing a fast, his heir should fast on his behalf.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 1952)
4. Acts of Ongoing Benefit (Sadaqah Jariyah):
Contributing to ongoing charitable projects, such as building a mosque, digging a well, or supporting Islamic education, ensures continuous rewards for the deceased.

Clarifying Misguided Practices

While reciting the Quran itself is a virtuous act, there is no evidence that doing so for the deceased transfers rewards to them. Instead, it is better to focus on what is explicitly taught by the Quran and Sunnah.

Practical Guidance:
   •   For the Living: Reflect on and act upon the Quran’s teachings. Ensure you understand its message and apply it to your daily life.
   •   For the Deceased: Offer dua, give charity on their behalf, and engage in ongoing projects of benefit.

By aligning our actions with authentic teachings, we ensure that our efforts are truly pleasing to Allah and beneficial to ourselves and our loved ones. This approach also avoids innovation (bid’ah), which the Prophet (PBUH) warned against:

“Whoever introduces something into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not part of it, it will be rejected.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2697; Sahih Muslim, 1718)

May Allah guide us to worship Him in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah and grant mercy to our deceased loved ones. Ameen.

Definition of Bid‘ah

Bid‘ah refers to introducing new practices, beliefs, or rituals into the religion of Islam that are not supported by the Quran, Sunnah, or the practices of the early generations (the Salaf). Bid‘ah alters the pure and complete religion that Allah perfected for humanity:

“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion.” (Quran 5:3)

Adding or altering religious practices implies dissatisfaction with the religion Allah has perfected, which is a grave error.

Why Bid‘ah is Dangerous

1. Deception of Good Intentions:
Bid‘ah often looks appealing because it is done under the guise of “pleasing Allah” or “adding more spirituality.” However, even if the intentions are good, acts not rooted in the Quran and Sunnah are rejected. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Whoever innovates something into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not from it, it will be rejected.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 2697; Sahih Muslim, 1718)
2. Imitating Shaytan’s Whispering:
Satan thrives on leading people astray by making false practices seem virtuous. By introducing innovations, a person unknowingly aligns with Shaytan’s objective: to divert people from the straight path. Allah warns:
“And do not follow the footsteps of Shaytan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (Quran 2:168)
3. Confusion and Division:
Innovations lead to division among Muslims as they introduce practices not universally recognized or validated by Islamic teachings. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever introduces into this religion of ours something that does not belong to it, it is to be rejected.” (Sahih Muslim, 1718)
4. Obscuring the Sunnah:
When Bid‘ah becomes widespread, it overshadows the Sunnah. People may abandon the authentic teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) in favor of innovations that seem easier or more popular.

The Punishment for Starting or Following Bid‘ah

1. Rejection of Deeds:
Acts of worship that are innovated will not be accepted by Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Every newly-invented matter is an innovation (Bid‘ah), and every Bid‘ah is a misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i, 1578)
2. Earned Sin of Followers:
A person who introduces Bid‘ah will bear the sin of those who follow it without diminishing their sins. The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Whoever starts something evil in Islam will bear the sin for it, as well as the sin of all those who do it after him, without reducing their burden in the least.” (Sahih Muslim, 1017)
3. Leading Away from the Straight Path:
Allah warns against deviating from His guidance:
“And whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has become clear to him and follows a path other than that of the believers—We will turn him to what he has chosen and burn him in Hell. What an evil destination!” (Quran 4:115)

Wisdom in Avoiding Bid‘ah

1. Adherence to the Quran and Sunnah:
Islam’s strength lies in its divine guidance, which is timeless and comprehensive. Allah says:
“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Quran 3:103)
The “rope of Allah” is the Quran and Sunnah, which ensure unity and truth.
2. Focusing on the Accepted Acts of Worship:
There are countless authentic ways to worship Allah, such as Salah, fasting, zakat, making sincere Dua, and reciting the Quran. These are sufficient for achieving Allah’s pleasure.
3. The Danger of “Looks and Feels Good”:
Many innovations are justified because they “feel good” or seem like acts of devotion. However, Shaytan manipulates feelings to mislead people. The Prophet (PBUH) warned:
“Satan sits on every path leading to good…” (Musnad Ahmad, 18535)
Innovations are one of his traps to corrupt worship.

How to Identify and Avoid Bid‘ah

1. Seek Knowledge:
Educate yourself about the Quran, Sunnah, and the practices of the Sahaba (Companions of the Prophet). Acts of worship should have a clear basis in these sources.
2. Ask Scholars:
When in doubt, consult reliable Islamic scholars who base their rulings on authentic evidence.
3. Analyze the Practice:
      •   Does it have a basis in the Quran or Hadith?
      •   Did the Prophet (PBUH) or his Companions perform this act?
      •   Does it align with the principles of Tawheed (pure monotheism)?
4. Abandon Cultural Practices That Contradict Islam:
Often, cultural habits are mistaken for religious obligations. If a practice cannot be traced back to Islam, it should be abandoned.

Conclusion

Bid‘ah may appear harmless or even virtuous, but it is a dangerous deviation from the straight path. It corrupts the purity of Islam, leads to disunity, and incurs the wrath of Allah. Allah has given us a complete religion with no need for additions. By adhering to the Quran and Sunnah, Muslims safeguard their faith and ensure their worship is accepted.

“Indeed, this is My path, which is straight, so follow it; and do not follow [other] ways, for you will be separated from His way. This has He instructed you that you may become righteous.” (Quran 6:153)

May Allah guide us to follow the Quran and Sunnah and protect us from all forms of Bid‘ah. Ameen.

It is indeed important to ensure that the Duas (supplications) we make for the deceased are authentic and in accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Many Muslims are unaware of the authentic Duas for seeking forgiveness for the deceased, particularly during Salat al-Janazah (the funeral prayer). Here is detailed guidance to help rectify this:

The Purpose of Salat al-Janazah

The funeral prayer is primarily a supplication for the deceased. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of asking Allah for forgiveness and mercy for the deceased:

“When you pray over the dead, then make a sincere Dua for them.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, 3199)

The focus of this prayer is to seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for the deceased, to ease their transition into the hereafter.

The Authentic Dua in Salat al-Janazah

During the fourth Takbir of Salat al-Janazah, the Prophet (PBUH) taught a specific Dua, which is the most comprehensive and authentic supplication for the deceased:

اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لَهُ وَارْحَمْهُ، وَعَافِهِ وَاعْفُ عَنْهُ، وَأَكْرِمْ نُزُلَهُ، وَوَسِّعْ مُدْخَلَهُ، وَاغْسِلْهُ بِالْمَاءِ وَالثَّلْجِ وَالْبَرَدِ، وَنَقِّهِ مِنَ الْخَطَايَا كَمَا يُنَقَّى الثَّوْبُ الْأَبْيَضُ مِنَ الدَّنَسِ، وَأَبْدِلْهُ دَارًا خَيْرًا مِنْ دَارِهِ، وَأَهْلًا خَيْرًا مِنْ أَهْلِهِ، وَزَوْجًا خَيْرًا مِنْ زَوْجِهِ، وَأَدْخِلْهُ الْجَنَّةَ، وَأَعِذْهُ مِنْ عَذَابِ الْقَبْرِ وَعَذَابِ النَّارِ.

Transliteration:
Allahumma ighfir lahu warhamhu wa ‘afihi wa‘fu ‘anhu, wa akrim nuzulahu, wa wassi‘ mudkhalahu, waghsilhu bil-ma’i wath-thalji wal-barad, wa naqqihi mina al-khataya kama yunaqqa ath-thawbu al-abyadu mina ad-danas, wa abdilhu daran khayran min darihi, wa ahlan khayran min ahlihi, wa zawjan khayran min zawjihi, wa adkhilhu al-jannah, wa a‘idhhu min ‘adhabi al-qabri wa ‘adhabi an-naar.

Translation:
O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, grant him ease and respite, pardon him, honor the place where he settles, expand his entrance, and wash him with water, snow, and hail. Cleanse him of sins as a white garment is cleansed of dirt. Replace his home with a better home, his family with a better family, and his spouse with a better spouse. Admit him to Paradise and protect him from the punishment of the grave and the torment of the Fire.

This comprehensive Dua encapsulates everything a believer would wish for a deceased loved one.

Additional Supplications for the Deceased

1. If the deceased is a child:
اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْهُ فَرَطًا وَذُخْرًا لِوَالِدَيْهِ وَشَفِيعًا مُجَابًا، اللَّهُمَّ ثَقِّلْ بِهِ مَوَازِينَ وَالِدَيْهِ، وَأَعْظِمْ بِهِ أُجُورَهُمَا، وَأَلْحِقْهُ بِصَالِحِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ، وَاجْعَلْهُ فِي كَفَالَةِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، وَقِهِ بِرَحْمَتِكَ عَذَابَ الْجَحِيمِ.

O Allah, make him a predecessor and a stored treasure for his parents and an answered intercessor. O Allah, make him weigh heavily in his parents’ scales and magnify their rewards. Join him with the righteous believers, place him under the care of Ibrahim, and protect him through Your mercy from the torment of the blazing Fire.
(Ibn Majah, 1516)
2. Short Duas from the Sunnah:
      •   اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لَهُ وَارْحَمْهُ
O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him.
      •   اللَّهُمَّ ثَبِّتْهُ عِنْدَ السُّؤَالِ
O Allah, make him steadfast during the questioning.
      •   اللَّهُمَّ أَدْخِلْهُ الْجَنَّةَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ
O Allah, admit him into Paradise through Your mercy.

What Is Incorrect or Unsupported in Some Practices

1. Unfounded Duas:
Many Muslims recite fabricated or culturally inherited Duas that are not part of the Sunnah. These may lack the comprehensiveness and authenticity of the Duas taught by the Prophet (PBUH).
2. Over-emphasis on Rituals:
Some practices, such as excessive wailing, creating elaborate burial customs, or reciting specific Quranic chapters without evidence, are not prescribed in Islam.
3. Reciting the Quran for the Deceased:
There is no authentic evidence that reciting the Quran benefits the deceased unless it is done by the deceased themselves during their lifetime. The rewards of the Quranic recitation are for the one who recites it. Instead, focus on Dua, charity, or acts of kindness done on behalf of the deceased, as these are supported by evidence.

How to Properly Ask Forgiveness for the Deceased

   •   Follow the authentic Duas from the Quran and Sunnah.
   •   Ensure sincerity in the supplication, asking Allah with humility and hope for His mercy.
   •   Avoid innovations or unnecessary additions to the funeral rites.

A Hadith on the Importance of Proper Supplication

The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“When a person dies, all his deeds come to an end except for three: Sadaqah Jariyah (a continuous charity), knowledge from which benefit is gained, or a righteous child who prays for him.” (Sahih Muslim, 1631)

This highlights the importance of making proper supplications and performing actions that genuinely benefit the deceased.

Conclusion

Muslims must strive to learn the authentic Duas for the deceased, especially during Salat al-Janazah. By adhering to the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah, we can ensure that our efforts to seek Allah’s mercy for the deceased are effective and free from innovations. May Allah guide us all to follow the correct path and grant mercy to all our deceased loved ones. Ameen.

Let’s address the idea of following only the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and why rejecting any innovation (Bid’ah) is essential to remaining on the right path in Islam.

1. Quran: The Quran is the ultimate and unaltered word of Allah (SWT), revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as guidance for all humanity. Allah says:
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:2)
The Quran lays out the framework of belief, worship, and righteous living.
2. Sunnah: The Sunnah (teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad, PBUH) is the second essential source of Islamic law and guidance. The Prophet (PBUH) was sent to explain and demonstrate the Quran’s teachings. Allah says:
“And We sent down to you the message (Quran) so that you may make clear to the people what was sent down to them, and that they might reflect.” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:44)
The Sunnah provides practical application and deeper understanding of the Quran.

Rejecting Innovations (Bid’ah)

1. What is Bid’ah?
Bid’ah refers to any newly invented matter in the religion that was not practiced or approved by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions. The Prophet (PBUH) warned us:
“Whoever introduces something into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not part of it will have it rejected.” (Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

Anything that alters or adds to the core teachings of the Quran and Sunnah is a deviation. No matter how well-intentioned an innovation might seem, it is not acceptable in the eyes of Allah.
2. Dangers of Bid’ah:
      •   Distorts the Religion: Innovations dilute the purity of Islam and open the door for people to create their own interpretations, leading others astray.
      •   Undermines the Prophet’s Role: If we accept innovations, we imply that the guidance brought by the Prophet (PBUH) was incomplete or insufficient.
      •   Leads to Misguidance: The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Beware of newly invented matters, for every invented matter is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance, and every misguidance is in the Hellfire.” (Sunan An-Nasa’i, 1578)

Practicing Faith According to Quran and Sunnah

   •   Adab and Prerequisites of Reading Quran:
Reading Quran with sincerity, understanding, and adherence to its teachings is one of the greatest acts of worship. Allah rewards those who recite His words and implement them in their lives.
However, dedicating acts like reading Quran in specific, invented ceremonies or gatherings without evidence from the Quran or Sunnah can be problematic. What is best is to read Quran ourselves or make sincere Dua for our loved ones, as these are clear, authentic practices.
   •   Dua for the Deceased:
The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged us to pray for the forgiveness of the deceased:
“O Allah, forgive him, have mercy on him, grant him peace and absolve him.” (Sahih Muslim, 963)
Acts like Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), recitation of Quran for oneself, and raising righteous children who pray for the deceased are permissible.

Respecting Differences and Seeking Unity

It is important to approach differences in beliefs with wisdom and respect. As Muslims, we are obligated to seek guidance directly from Allah:

“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:103)

When confronted with conflicting practices or opinions, we should always ask:
   •   Is this supported by the Quran?
   •   Is this in accordance with the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)?

If the answer is “no,” it is better to refrain, as our ultimate accountability is before Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) left us with clear guidance:

“I have left among you two things, you will never go astray as long as you adhere to them: the Book of Allah and my Sunnah.” (Muwatta Malik, 1594)

Conclusion

Following only the Quran and the authentic Sunnah is the safest and most rewarding path. It aligns us with Allah’s guidance and keeps us from falling into misguidance. We ask Allah (SWT) to grant us wisdom, protect us from Bid’ah, and guide us to the straight path. May He also accept our efforts and prayers for our loved ones and unite us all in Jannah.

JazakAllahu Khair for seeking clarity and striving to follow the truth. May Allah increase your knowledge and bless you for your sincerity in following His guidance.