MCQ Detailed View

In Islamic funeral practices (Janazah rites), the shrouding of the deceased, known as Kafan, is an essential Sunnah act performed before burial. For a Muslim male, the body is wrapped in three white sheets without sewing or fancy decoration. For a Muslim female, Islamic tradition prescribes five sheets, offering greater coverage and modesty, in line with the principles of haya (modesty) in Islam.

The five pieces for a female’s Kafan generally include:

1. 
   

   Izar – lower garment (wrap from waist to feet).

   
   


2. 
   

   Qamees – long shirt-like sheet from shoulders to feet.

   
   


3. 
   

   Khimar – head covering (veil).

   
   


4. 
   

   Two large sheets – to wrap the entire body securely.

   
   

These extra layers ensure the deceased woman’s body is fully concealed, as modesty remains important even after death. The use of plain white cloth is preferred, following the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who recommended simplicity in burial shrouds.

The process is done respectfully, with the body washed (Ghusl) and perfumed before shrouding, following the Sunnah. All actions are carried out with the intention of fulfilling the final rights owed to the deceased.

Key Facts:

• 
  

  Male Kafan: 3 white sheets.

  
  


• 
  

  Female Kafan: 5 sheets for extra modesty.

  
  


• 
  

  Based on Sunnah and Fiqh rulings in all major Islamic schools.

  
  


• 
  

  Cloth should be plain, white, and simple.

  
  


• 
  

  Modesty is maintained even after death in Islam.

  
  


• 
  

  The shrouding is done after Ghusl (ritual washing) and perfuming.