What Is Recited in Janazah Prayer? (Funeral Prayer in Islam)
Author : Misbah Ul Quran | Published On : 25 Feb 2026
The Janazah prayer is a special Islamic prayer offered for a deceased Muslim. It is a collective obligation (Fard Kifayah), meaning if some members of the community perform it, the rest are absolved of the responsibility. Unlike the five daily prayers, Janazah prayer is unique because it does not include bowing (ruku) or prostration (sujood). Instead, it consists of supplications (duas) seeking forgiveness and mercy for the deceased.
The procedure of Janazah prayer is based on the teachings and practice of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Structure of the Janazah Prayer
Janazah prayer consists of four Takbirs (saying “Allahu Akbar”), with specific recitations after each Takbir.
First Takbir
After making the intention (niyyah) in your heart for offering the funeral prayer, the imam says “Allahu Akbar.”
After the first Takbir, recite:
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Surah Al-Fatiha from the Qur'an.
Some scholars also recommend reciting a short Surah after Al-Fatiha, but the minimum requirement is Surah Al-Fatiha.
Second Takbir
The imam says the second “Allahu Akbar.”
After this, recite Durood (Salawat) upon the Prophet (PBUH) — the same as recited in the final sitting of regular prayers:
“Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala aali Muhammad…”
This is the same prayer asking Allah to send blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his family.
Third Takbir
After the third “Allahu Akbar,” a special dua (supplication) for the deceased is recited.
One commonly recited dua is:
“Allahummaghfir lihayyina wa mayyitina, wa shahidina wa gha’ibina…”
Meaning:
“O Allah, forgive our living and our dead, those present and those absent…”
Another well-known supplication is:
“Allahummaghfir lahu warhamhu…”
Meaning:
“O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him…”
If the deceased is a woman, the pronouns in the dua are changed accordingly.
This part is the most important section of the Janazah prayer because it is specifically for seeking forgiveness and mercy for the deceased.
Fourth Takbir
After the fourth “Allahu Akbar,” a short pause is made. Some scholars recommend making a brief dua again.
Then the prayer is concluded by saying Tasleem (saying “Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullah”), usually once to the right side, though some scholars allow saying it on both sides.
Key Features of Janazah Prayer
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No ruku (bowing)
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No sujood (prostration)
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No tashahhud
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Performed standing (if able)
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Four Takbirs
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Focused mainly on dua for the deceased
Importance of Janazah Prayer
The Janazah prayer reflects the strong sense of brotherhood and community in Islam. It is a final act of service for the deceased. According to authentic narrations, participating in the funeral prayer carries immense reward.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to attend funeral prayers and supplicate sincerely for the deceased.
Conclusion
Janazah prayer is a simple yet deeply meaningful act of worship. It consists of praising Allah, sending blessings upon the Prophet (PBUH), and making heartfelt dua for the deceased. The main focus is not ritual movements but sincere supplication, asking Allah to forgive, grant mercy, and admit the deceased into Paradise.
Every Muslim should learn how to perform Janazah prayer correctly so they can fulfill this important communal obligation when needed.
