Preparing the deceased according to Islamic law: Ghusl and Kafan under German law
Preparing the dead in Islam is a sacred rite that is carried out with the utmost purity and respect. It begins with the ritual washing (Ghusl) and then shrouding the body in the Kafan, before the funeral prayer is performed and the burial takes place.
In Germany, these religious practices can be carried out freely, provided that they take place within the legal and regulatory framework laid down by the health authorities.
What is Ghusl?
Ghusl is the ritual purification of the deceased’s body by washing it at least three times with clean water and soap.
In the final wash, a fragrance or perfume is usually added.
Afterwards, the body is dried gently and respectfully.
Who performs the washing?
Ghusl is performed by adult Muslims of the same gender as the deceased (men for men, women for women).
In cases of necessity, a person authorised by an Islamic funeral company may be called in.
It is recommended – if the family wishes – that a family member or an imam be present.
Where is it performed?
In an Islamic funeral washing facility (Waschraum) located in a Muslim cemetery or a large mosque.
Or in a dedicated room within a licensed funeral company, as long as all health and hygiene regulations are fulfilled.
Legal notes:
The ritual washing must not take place before the doctor has completed the post-mortem examination (Leichenschau).
In cases of unnatural death (e.g. accident, suspected crime), Ghusl is not permitted until forensic examination or an autopsy has been completed and the authorities have given clearance.
The Islamic Kafan
A simple, pure white cloth without decoration is used, usually made of cotton or linen.
The deceased is wrapped as follows:
Men: typically in three pieces of cloth (layers).
Women: in five pieces of cloth, ensuring complete coverage of the hair and the entire body.
German legal requirements
In most German federal states there is a legal requirement to bury the deceased in a coffin (Sargpflicht).
It is permitted to place the deceased in the Islamic Kafan inside the coffin, as long as the shroud is properly closed and hygiene rules are respected.
Some states (such as Berlin and Hamburg) have begun to allow burial directly in the shroud without a coffin in special Islamic sections of cemeteries. This, however, usually requires a specific prior permit from the authorities.
Islamic law recommends that the deceased be placed in the grave facing the Qibla (towards Mecca).
Islamic funeral companies and those responsible for Islamic grave sections generally make sure that this is taken into account when placing the body in the coffin and during the burial.
In Germany, Ghusl and Kafan can be carried out fully in accordance with Islamic law, provided that the relevant legal requirements are respected:
Waiting for the doctor’s clearance after the post-mortem examination,
Performing Ghusl in an approved and hygienically suitable facility,
Using the Islamic shroud, placed inside a coffin if required by law,
Coordinating closely with a funeral company that understands both the religious rules and the German legal framework.
These steps are not only a religious duty, but also an honest expression of honour, dignity and a loving farewell to the person who has passed away.
The editorial team of this website aims to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. Nevertheless, errors or incomplete details cannot be completely ruled out. Please treat this article as an initial point of reference and always contact the competent authorities, health offices and funeral companies for binding and up-to-date information.
