Can you view the face of the deceased in Islam?
The moments following a person’s death are deeply emotional and spiritually significant. One of the questions often asked in Muslim communities is whether it is permissible to view the face of the deceased. The answer is not entirely uniform, as Islamic practice on this matter varies across cultures and is subject to interpretation, though both primary opinions are rooted in respect and mercy.
Two opinions based on practice and culture
In many Middle Eastern cultures, it is common to shroud the body soon after death without displaying the face. In contrast, within the South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi) communities, it is customary to allow the family and loved ones to view the face of the deceased before the body is taken for burial. Both practices are observed by Muslims and neither contradicts Islamic principles, as long as they are done respectfully and within the bounds of the Shari’ah.
Is it permissible to view the face?
Yes, it is permissible to view the face of the deceased, for both men and women. Viewing the face is not a religious obligation, but neither is it forbidden, and it may offer closure and comfort to loved ones.
The permissibility is supported by historical evidence from the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Can you touch or kiss the deceased?
Yes, it is permissible to touch or kiss the deceased, under conditions of modesty and appropriate relations.
This is exemplified by the actions of Abu Bakr al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) after the passing of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated:
Abu Bakr came riding his horse from his dwelling place in As-Sunh. He dismounted and entered the mosque, and did not speak to the people until he entered upon the Prophet ﷺ in his room. He covered him with a cloth and then uncovered his face, and bent over him and kissed him and said:
“May my father and mother be sacrificed for you, O Prophet of Allah! You have tasted the death which Allah had decreed for you. You will never die again.”
(Buhkhari)
His action of kissing and touching the deceased shows this is not only permissible, but was done out of love, respect, and grief.
Key points :
- Viewing the face of the deceased is allowed in Islam and not considered haram, especially if it helps the grieving family say goodbye respectfully.
- Cultural practices differ. Some communities prefer the face to be uncovered, others cover it quickly after death. Neither is inherently wrong.
- Touching and kissing the deceased is also permitted when done respectfully and when Islamic guidelines on gender interaction and covering are observed.
- The priority after death is dignity, modesty, and speed in burial, but Islam also recognises human emotion and allows space for grief and farewell.
Islam is a religion of law and compassion. The practices around death aim to honour the deceased while offering comfort to the living. Whether a family chooses to view the face or not, what matters most is that the deceased is treated with dignity, and that we pray for their forgiveness and mercy.
Shaykh Haytham Tamim 9th June 2026