It is customary to bury the deceased immediately because embalming is not permitted in the Muslim faith. The body is prepared for burial by performing a ritualistic bath and is bound in a simple white shroud. The funeral service takes place in a Mosque where shoes are required to be removed; women and men sit separately in designated seats; and where women are obligated to wear a headscarf. The funeral service is brief, involving ritualistic chanting and readings from the Koran. Those in attendance will pay their respects by lining up and walking past the body, prior to the deceased being taken to their final resting-place. The deceased will be taken to the cemetery where the body is lowered into the ground, with the deceased's head pointing towards the direction of Mecca (The Islamic Holy Land).
A meal is later served at the Mosque for all those who attended the Funeral Service. Mourning for family members usually last for 3 days, 10 days for a widow mourning her husband. It is customary to bring food such as, baked goods and fruit or vegetable platters. Those offering their condolences should not bring or order flowers for the family. A food donation or a money donation is more acceptable. Within the Islamic faith it is a religious duty of members to help pay down the cost of the deceased's funeral expenses in order to help the family. While speaking with family members it is appropriate to listen to their grief and offer comforting words. The Muslim faith encourages family members to face and accept their bereavement
