fact, even if there is a predominant assumption that the path is newly-formed (over graves), walking on it is impermissible and a sin.^[1]

4.   When visiting a grave, one should stand near the face of the deceased, and one should go from the side of the feet, so that he is in his line of sight. Do not go from the head side, because they will have to lift their head and turn to see.^[2]

5.   Stand in the graveyard in such a way that your back is towards the Qibla, and you are facing the deceased’s face, and then say: اَلسَّلامُ عَلَیْکُمْ یَا اَھْلَ الْقُبُوْرِ یَغْفِرُ اللہُ لَنَا وَلَکُمْ اَنْتُمْ لَـنَا سَلَفٌ وَّنَحنُ بِالْاَثَر. Translation: ‘Peace be upon you, oh people of the grave! May Allah Almighty forgive us and you. You have come before us, and we will come after you.’^[3]

6.   Incense sticks should not be lit on top of graves, as this is bad etiquette and the deceased is harmed by this. However, if one wishes to use them in order to make it fragrant for visitors, they should be placed in an empty area by the grave, for spreading fragrance is liked.^[4]

7.   Do not place a lamp, candle, etc., on a grave. This is fire, and placing fire on a grave causes harm to the deceased. However, if one intends to light the path for those who walk there at night, a lamp or candle can be placed in an empty spot to the side of the grave.

Dear Islamic brothers! After visiting the graves, recite as much as possible for the deceased and transmit the reward to them, for the deceased can be given benefit from our righteous actions. Just as Sadr-ush-Shari’ah, Mufti Muhammad Amjad Ali A’zami رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْه states: “Isal al-Thawab, i.e. transmitting the reward of the Quran, Salat upon the Prophet, Kalimah Tayyibah, or any other righteous action, is permissible. Whether the act of worship is through wealth or through one’s body, or a Fard or Nafl act, its reward can be transmitted to others. This is because the deceased benefits through the Isal al-Thawab of the living.”^[5]