The prescribed Islamic funeral prayer is a communal obligation for Muslims when a fellow believer passes away. It is a prayer offered for the deceased, seeking forgiveness and mercy for them. This ritual differs from regular daily prayers as it lacks bowing (Ruku’) and prostration (Sujud).
Performing this prayer is a significant act of compassion and solidarity within the Muslim community. It signifies respect for the deceased and provides comfort to the bereaved family. Historically, offering such prayers reflects the strong communal bonds and the emphasis on supporting one another in times of both joy and sorrow. Failing to fulfill this communal obligation can lead to collective sin.