Feeding the Dead? Islamic Ruling on 3rd, 7th, and 40th Day Feasts

Many Muslims practice funeral feasts on the 3rd, 7th, or 40th day after a person’s death, believing that feeding people and gathering relatives benefits the deceased. However, authentic Islamic teachings clearly show that these practices are not part of Islam and were never practiced by the Prophet ﷺ or his companions.

In Islam, mourning is limited to three days for relatives, while a widow mourns for four months and ten days. Extending mourning through organized feasts, anniversaries, or repeated gatherings is considered innovation (bid‘ah). These customs trace back to ancient non-Muslim civilizations, including the beliefs of the Pharaohs, who held rituals connected to the soul returning after forty days.

Islam emphasizes following the Prophet ﷺ as the ultimate role model. If he ﷺ and his companions did not perform these rituals, Muslims are not permitted to introduce them into religion, regardless of how harmless they may seem. Innovation in religion leads people away from the Sunnah and can result in misguidance.

If a person truly wants to benefit their deceased loved ones, Islam provides clear and authentic alternatives: making sincere du‘a for forgiveness, giving charity on their behalf, supporting ongoing beneficial projects (ṣadaqah jāriyah), and performing Hajj or ‘Umrah on behalf of the deceased after fulfilling one’s own obligation.

Following the Sunnah guarantees guidance, while introducing new practices—even with good intentions—risks straying from the straight path. True love for the deceased is shown by adhering to what Allah and His Messenger ﷺ legislated.



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