Burial of Muslims in Germany
Introduction
Burial is one of the most important religious rites in Islam and reflects the respect owed to the deceased. According to Islamic belief, burying a Muslim requires adherence to a set of specific rules and rituals that ensure the dignity of the body. In Germany, local burial regulations can sometimes pose challenges to these religious practices, which makes it essential to understand how to deal with such sensitive matters.
This article looks at Islamic burial practices in Germany, including local legal regulations, funeral costs, and the role of Islamic organisations in supporting families in times of bereavement. It also highlights the rights of the family and the tax treatment of funeral expenses.
Rituals associated with Islamic burial
The rituals begin with the washing of the deceased (Ghusl), which is a key step in Islamic burial. The body is washed with clean water and then wrapped in a simple white shroud known as the Kafan. The shroud symbolises simplicity and humility, as the deceased is buried without adornment or luxury.
In Islamic tradition, burial should take place as soon as possible, usually within 24 to 48 hours after death. In Germany, however, the legal and administrative procedures – such as the issue of the death certificate and formal release of the body – may take longer, which can conflict with this religious requirement.
Legal framework for Islamic burial in Germany
German burial laws are not always fully aligned with Islamic burial practices. Under most state laws, burial in a coffin (Sargpflicht) is mandatory. This requirement contradicts the traditional Muslim custom of burying the deceased wrapped only in the shroud.
However, some cemeteries have introduced special arrangements or designated Muslim burial sections where burial in a shroud is permitted or where a very simple coffin is used.
It is also religiously important that the deceased be buried facing Mecca. The body should be positioned so that the face is turned towards the Kaaba in Mecca. The way this is implemented in practice may vary depending on the rules of the individual cemetery.
After burial, the grave is usually closed; often wooden boards are placed over the body before the grave is filled with soil.
Funeral costs and burial expenses
Funeral costs (Beerdigungskosten) are in many respects similar to those of conventional burials in Germany but may include additional expenses relating to Islamic rituals. Typical costs include:
Cemetery fees (Friedhofsgebühren)
Coffin costs, if a coffin is required (Sargkosten)
Funeral director’s and service fees (Bestattungsdienstleistungen)
According to the German Funeral Association (Bundesverband Deutscher Bestatter e.V.), it is advisable to obtain a cost estimate in advance. The average cost of a burial including a coffin is around 1,800 euros, but the total may be higher depending on the region, cemetery and services chosen.
The role of Islamic organisations
In many cities, Islamic associations and communities purchase burial plots or larger areas within cemeteries specifically for Muslim burials. This gives members of the Muslim community the opportunity to bury their deceased in accordance with their religious traditions.
Families may be asked to pay a one-off contribution or a modest fee to secure a burial place. Some organisations also offer annual membership fees, for example around 90 euros per family, which can include additional services such as:
Arranging the repatriation of the deceased to their country of origin, or
Ensuring that a full Islamic burial can be carried out in Germany.
Such support plays a key role in strengthening solidarity and mutual care within the Muslim community.
Who is responsible for funeral costs?
Close relatives are generally responsible for arranging the burial and covering the associated costs. Under the burial laws of the German federal states, heirs can renounce the inheritance, but this does not necessarily release them from the obligation to organise and pay for a dignified funeral.
Even if the inheritance is refused, funeral costs may still be considered a legal obligation that falls on the relatives.
Tax treatment of funeral expenses
Funeral costs (Beerdigungskosten) may be claimed as extraordinary expenses in the German income tax return if they were incurred for legal reasons or voluntarily for ethical or moral reasons.
This allows relatives to reduce their taxable income and thus ease the financial burden of funeral expenses to some extent.
Conclusion
Islamic burial in Germany involves careful consideration of both religious requirements and German burial laws. It is important that families understand their rights and duties so they can arrange a funeral that respects Islamic traditions while complying with local regulations.
Support from Islamic organisations, counselling centres and experienced funeral directors can make it easier for families to navigate this difficult time and to give their loved ones a dignified farewell.
*The editorial team and authors of our website strive to provide accurate information based on thorough research and a range of sources. Nevertheless, errors may occur or certain details may be incomplete or not fully confirmed. For this reason, the information in our articles should be regarded as an initial point of reference, and for binding and up-to-date guidance you should always contact the relevant authorities and official bodies.
