Title: Burial for a Non-Muslim Question: I would like to know how am I going to address an aunt's request to be buried according to Islamic rites when she is a non-Muslim, just because she likes the practicality of it as opposed to non-Muslim rites which involve a lot of expenses and preparation. Answer: If your aunt only wishes to be buried in the manner that Muslims are buried, which means she would like for her corpse to be washed, shrouded in a white cloth and laid to rest in that way, is fine. If she wishes that all the rites take place such as the prayer then that too can be accommodated as long as you have willing participants. Some Muslims may not wish to partake in the Islamic ceremonial funeral for a non-Muslim. Nevertheless, it seems that it is more of a financial and common sense matter to her and therefore it seems that the former applies to her wishes. There is nothing in the religious doctrine that stops you from granting her her wish. I hope I have clarified the issue. God knows best. Ronnie Hassan March 2, 2007