Once these preliminary steps are completed, the washing procedure commences. The body is typically washed three times, beginning with water mixed with natural elements—most notably, fragrant substances such as camphor or soap. This approach is significant, for it serves as both a cleansing mechanism and a means of providing a comforting aroma to the deceased as they embark on their final journey. Certain schools of thought advocate for the use of water heated to a moderate temperature, ensuring comfort during the washing. Each wash is conducted from the right side of the body, coinciding with the preference for starting with the right side in various Islamic teachings.
Post-wash, the deceased is then dried carefully and wrapped in a simple white shroud known as Kafan. The Kafan is symbolically significant; it represents humility and equality in death, stripping away any worldly distinction. The shroud comprises three pieces: one for the lower body, one for the upper body, and a third piece that envelops the body as a whole. This simplicity reflects the transient nature of material possessions and serves as a stark reminder of the equality that exists in death.
After the completion of Qusl and shrouding, the next pivotal ritual is Salat al-Mayyit, the funeral prayer for the deceased. This prayer serves as a collective supplication for the departed soul, asking for forgiveness and mercy. It is crucial that this prayer be led by an individual who is knowledgeable in Islamic jurisprudence, often a religious leader or an appointed representative of the family. The essence of this ritual underscores the belief in intercession and the enduring connection between the living and the deceased.
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