How many Takbeers are in Namaz-e-Janaza?

Namaz-e-Janaza, the Islamic funeral prayer, holds a central place in Muslim tradition. It is performed to seek forgiveness and mercy from Allah for the deceased. One of its important features is the number of Takbeers included in the prayer. According to the authentic Sunnah and the consensus of the majority of Islamic scholars, Namaz-e-Janaza consists of four Takbeers. This method was consistently practiced by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and was followed by his Companions (RA), making it the established and widely accepted format in the Muslim world.

Each of the four Takbeers has its own purpose within the prayer. After the first Takbeer, Surah Al-Fatihah is recited. The second Takbeer is followed by Durood-e-Ibrahim, sending blessings upon the Prophet (SAW). After the third Takbeer, the dua for the deceased is recited, asking Allah to forgive their sins, grant them mercy, and raise their ranks. The fourth Takbeer concludes the supplications, and after a brief pause, the Imam ends the prayer with Salam.

This structure reflects the spiritual role of the Janaza prayer, which is not like regular Salah with ruku and sujood, but a du’a-based worship aimed at seeking Allah’s mercy. The presence of four Takbeers symbolizes completeness and serves as a reminder of the steps taken from life to death, and ultimately, to the Hereafter.