Remaining Sunan and Etiquettes Regarding Visiting the Graveyard

1. It has been observed at several resting places of the saints (awliyāˈ) that for the convenience of visitors, the graves of Muslims are demolished to create a floor. It is Haram to lie, walk, stand, or sit for recitation upon such a floor. Recite Fātiḥah from a distance.

2. Visiting the deceased should be done by standing in front of the deceased's face, approaching from the direction of the feet so that one is within their sight. Do not approach from the head-side, as they would have to lift their head to see.^[1]

3. Stand in the graveyard in such a way that your back is towards the Qiblah and your face is towards the faces of the deceased. Thereafter, say:

اَلسَّلَامُ عَلَیْکُمْ یَا اَھْلَ الْقُبُوْرِ یَغْفِرُ اللہُ لَنَا وَلَکُمْ اَنْتُمْ لَنَا سَلَفٌ وَّنَحْنُ بِالْاَثَرِ

Translation: "Peace be upon you, O people of the graves! May Allah forgive us and you. You have preceded us, and we are to follow you."^[2]

4. Incense sticks should not be burnt on top of the grave, as this is disrespectful and [the rising of smoke over a grave is] viewed negatively (and this causes distress to the deceased). However, if one wishes to provide fragrance (to the attendees), they may place them in an empty space near the grave, as providing fragrance is desirable.^[3]

5. Do not place a lamp or candle on the grave as it is fire, and placing fire on a grave causes pain to the deceased. However, if