Pray for the deceased and their family

1. When receiving news of death, recite:
   

   
   إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ
   

   Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
   “To Allah (swt) we belong and to Him we shall return!” 

2. Pray for the deceased, asking Allah to grant them the highest level of Paradise. Pray that their grave is filled with noor (light) and the fragrance of Jannah (paradise) and to show them their place in Jannah.
3. Pray they are resting peacefully in their graves, and that Allah eases the pain and suffering of the loved ones left behind.

Visit the relatives of the deceased

Contrary to un-Islamic cultural and superstitious beliefs, speaking or associating with the relatives of the deceased or accepting momentos of the deceased will not unleash any negativity or bad luck.

Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. visited the families and friends of the deceased. Visiting families and friends of the deceased provides strength and support in the times of difficulty. It also improves relationships which is highly encouraged in Islam.

Express kindness in your words

There will be many people who die single, or married, or with children; in youth and in old age; in sickness, in health, in accidents and other tragic ways. The kindest Muslims are those who ease the pain and suffering of others, as the reward for such actions comes from Allah. Avoid blaming others for causing the death of a loved one. Allah swt knows why it was his/her time of death; blaming others will only cause guilt and anxiety.

Provide help and take action

Simple acts such as providing rides to visit the grave of the deceased, especially during the first year of death, or bringing food, or inviting them to your home, will be much appreciated as the family members often neglect themselves while grieving. Be among those Muslims who are caring and kind to others, especially during times of sadness. Often, the families of the deceased are embarrassed to ask for help, or just want to talk; offer your help.

Be sensitive and humble

Now is the not the time to suggest a marriage partner, gossip, or talk about your own happiness. Even making remarks such as, “It is time for you to move on,” or “At least you are so thin despite your loss,” or “How much did you score from the inheritance? Such remarks are inappropriate. One cannot imagine what the suffering individual is feeling, so just being there to show your support is better than saying something you will regret.