The role of the “BDB” association in issuing Islamic burial fatwas

The role of the “BDB” association in issuing guidance on Islamic burial

How does the Federal Association of German Undertakers (Bundesverband Deutscher Bestatter – BDB) support Islamic funerals?

In Germany, the BDB – Bundesverband Deutscher Bestatter – plays a key role as an umbrella organisation representing around 80 % of funeral companies, including crematoria (de.wikipedia.org). Although the BDB is not a religious body and does not issue Islamic legal “fatwas” in the strict sense, it has a significant impact on facilitating Islamic burials by spreading knowledge, providing professional guidelines, and offering institutional support.

What is the BDB’s actual role?

1. Preparing and distributing professional guides on Islamic burial

Through its website and regional associations, the BDB has published guidance documents that describe the steps of burial according to Islamic law – starting with the ritual washing (ghusl) and shrouding (kafan), and ending with burial in the direction of the Qibla, while at the same time observing the legal requirement to use a coffin (“Sargpflicht”) where applicable.

2. Coordination with municipalities and public authorities

The BDB acts as an intermediary between Islamic communities and local authorities, explaining technical proposals such as:

• The possibility of using a grave without a coffin in certain cemeteries (where the “Sargpflicht” can be waived),

• Conditions for setting up appropriate washing rooms and facilities in cemeteries or hospitals.

3. Training staff in religious sensitivity

The association organises training courses for employees of funeral companies with the aim of helping them:

• understand Islamic rites such as washing and shrouding,

• avoid behaviour that could be perceived as disrespectful or offensive from a religious perspective.

Why are the BDB’s guidelines practically important?

Municipalities in Germany often use the BDB’s standards as a technical reference when approving Islamic rituals. This improves the chances of obtaining burial permits that are compatible with Islamic practice.

Local funeral homes make use of the guidance material to prevent mistakes and to ensure a professional approach that is also sensitive to Islamic culture, all within the framework of hygiene, health, and legal regulations.

Can the BDB be regarded as a source of Islamic fatwa?

Not in the religious-legal sense:
A fatwa requires an Islamic scholarly body or a recognised religious council.

However, the BDB effectively provides a kind of “technical opinion” on practical aspects of funerals and is regarded as an accepted reference point by municipalities and funeral institutions.

Conclusion

The BDB is not a religious authority and does not issue fatwas, but it is an important legal and technical representative of the funeral industry in Germany. By publishing guidelines and coordinating with official bodies, it indirectly makes it easier to carry out Islamic burials within a respectful, lawful, and professional framework.

If you are looking for documentation to support an agreement with a municipality or a funeral company regarding Islamic burial standards, citing a BDB guide can carry considerable professional and political weight.

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The team of authors and editors of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and consultation of various sources. However, errors may occur or information may be incomplete or not yet fully verified. Please therefore treat the information in these articles as an initial reference only and always consult the competent authorities for definitive guidance.