Muslim Mourning Period and Memorial Events

Widows are expected to observe a longer mourning period, generally of four months and ten days. During this time, widows are prohibited from interacting with men whom they could potentially marry (known as “na-mahram”). However, this rule may be overlooked in cases of emergency, such as when the widow must see a doctor.

It is acceptable in Islam to express grief over a death. Crying and weeping silently at the time of death, at the funeral, and at the burial are all acceptable forms of expression. However, wailing, shrieking, tearing of clothing, breaking of objects, and expressing a lack of faith in Allah are all prohibited.

The mourning includes regular visits to the grave to offer prayers for the deceased. A collective prayer for all of the deceased in the past year is also held annually. Special attention is paid to offering prayers at the graves of Martyrs.