The Janazah prayer

 

The Janazah prayer, also known as the funeral prayer, is a solemn and important way for Muslims to honor the deceased and seek Allah's mercy for them.

HOW TO PERFORM JANAZAH PRAYER

Before the prayer:

Perform wudu: Make sure you are ritually clean before the prayer.
Line up: Stand in straight rows behind the imam, the prayer leader. Men usually stand in front,followed by women.
Intention: Make a silent intention in your heart to pray the Janazah for the deceased.

During the prayer:

First Takbir: Raise your hands up to your earlobes with the thumbs touching your index fingers and say "Allahu Akbar."
Seeking refuge: Recite "Audhu billahi mina ash-shaytanir rajim" meaning "I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed Satan."
Recite Surah Al-Fatihah: Recite the opening chapter of the Quran, "Al-Fatihah."

Second Takbir: Raise your hands again and say "Allahu Akbar."

Peace upon the Prophet: Recite the Salawat upon the Prophet Muhammad, as you would in regular prayer.

Third Takbir: Raise your hands again and say "Allahu Akbar."

Dua for the deceased: Recite a supplication for the deceased, asking for Allah's forgiveness and mercy for them. You can use a specific dua found in authentic hadith or make your own sincere du'a.

Fourth Takbir: Raise your hands again and say "Allahu Akbar."

Salaam: Turn your head to the right and say "Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuhu," then turn your head to the left and repeat the same. This concludes the prayer.

Additional notes:

• You can raise your hands for each Takbir except the second and fourth, or keep them at your sides throughout the prayer. Both are permissible.
• The prayer is performed standing, with no bowing or prostration.
• The imam will lead the prayer, but if there is no imam, anyone present can lead the prayer or pray individually.
• It is recommended to offer a personal dua for the deceased after the prayer.

CONCLUSION

For detailed instructions and variations depending on different schools of thought, it's recommended to consult a trusted scholar or Islamic resource.

Remember, the Janazah is a time for prayer, reflection, and support for the family and friends of the deceased.