Introduction: The Lifeline to the Grave When a person dies, their ability to do good deeds stops. They are alone in their grave, unable to pray or fast. However, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ gave us hope: "When a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three: ... or a righteous child who prays for him." Your Dua is the greatest gift you can send to a deceased loved one.
The Most Comprehensive Dua The Prophet ﷺ taught us this beautiful supplication for funerals:
"Allahummaghfir lahu warhamhu, wa 'afihi wa'fu 'anhu, wa akrim nuzulahu, wa wassi' mudkhalahu, waghsilhu bil-ma'i wath-thalji wal-barad..."
Translation: "O Allah, forgive him and have mercy on him. Grant him ease and pardon him. Make his resting place honorable and his entrance wide. Wash him with water, snow, and hail. Purify him from sins as a white garment is cleaned of dirt. Exchange his home for a better home... and admit him into Paradise, and protect him from the punishment of the grave and the Fire."
Understanding the Meanings
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"Wash him with snow and hail": Sins are described as having "heat" (like Hellfire). We ask Allah to cool the deceased's soul with His forgiveness.
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"A better home": We ask Allah to replace what they lost in this world with something infinitely better in the Hereafter.
Other Ways to Benefit the Deceased
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Sadaqah Jariyah (Ongoing Charity): Planting a tree, digging a well, or donating books in their name.
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Paying Debts: Unpaid debts can withhold a soul from entering Jannah. Settle their financial matters immediately.
Conclusion Do not let a day pass without mentioning your deceased parents or friends in your prayers. To them, your Dua is like a tray of light in a dark room.