Meals At The House Of A Janaazah

We understand from the Hadith Sharif that the family of deceased are generally occupied with burial arrangements and therefore should not be inconvenienced in anyway whatsoever.

Unfortunately, the trend and custom nowadays is that people partake of meals at the home of the deceased after the burial, which is in fact an innovation and should be discarded. This trend and custom places the family of the deceased into a difficult position as they feel it necessary to have meals prepared for the guests that will be arriving. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam took these aspects into consideration and advised the Sahaaba Radiallahu Anhum on the death of Jaafar Radiallahu Anhu by stating:

“Prepare food for the family of Jaafar Radiallahu Anhum, for verily a matter has occupied them.”

(Tirmidhi)

The Hadith teaches us that others (such as close family members and neighbours) should prepare food for the family of the deceased so that they do not have to prepare meals during their time of difficulty. If any travellers have attended the Janaazah from far-off places, then it will be best for the local friends and family to accommodate and take care of them so that the family of the deceased are not burdened in any way. As for the town people whether family, neighbours or friends, they should refrain from partaking of meals at the deceased’s residence, as the deceased residence is not a place of partying and merrymaking. In short, the practice of announcing after the Janaazah that food will be served should be discarded.

Secondly, if the family of the deceased does decide to feed the travellers for whatsoever reason, they should ensure that the funds are not used from the deceased’s estate particularly if minors qualify as heirs. In conclusion, we advise that the custom of feeding at the deceased’s residence should be discarded.