In 2010 (check???) I first embarked upon this spiritual vocation, which was shortly after the death of a friend. Additionally there were also my own deep-rooted issues, which always haunted me. This was when my late father passed away. It was indeed an extremely taxing and difficult time. It would be cruel to let my brothers and sisters go through what we as a family endured. Back then there was no one...not even someone to give you a pot of food, a word of advice, a pointer of guidance, or even a sympathetic ear.
My background in psychology assisted me and made it easy for people to open up to me. I also appreciated the immense sacred reward in the healing aspect - something I refer to as "spiritual satisfaction". To be able to walk into someone's home or a hospital and guide a bereaved family through a three-dimensional maze at one of the most testing times of their lives.
During my time I have given talks up and down the country and spoke at different mosques, universities, government departments, burial conferences and even assisted in the design of the new hospice in Dumbreck so it would be Shariah-compliant wherever possible. I was also instrumental in the launch of MBSS (Muslim Bereavement Support Service) so that it may serve Scotland. My very first task was the cleaning up of cemeteries, washing headstones - which grew arms and legs.
I want to impart the fruits of my knowledge with respect to death. This information will give you everything you will require in order to assist a troubled family in their darkest hours. This is a comprehensive guide and the information will apply anywhere in Scotland. Information and links will be updated after any changes in legislation.
The Muslim population has witnessed a surge in the number of deaths throughout Scotland. Only the giver of life and death knows the true trajectory.
The objective is not to make you into a funeral director - rather to give you the confidence, ability and the information so that you will know what to do according to Islamic protocol and operate within the framework of the law. The three areas are legalities, practicalities and the Shariah, and everything has to be done sequentially.
This information is the essence of over a decade of my work and experience, specifically in relation to death. During my service it has always been without payment (fisabilillah). I trust you will play your part with compassion, understanding and patience. To provide much-needed guidance to a; friend from university, neighbour, relative, or perhaps a complete stranger.
I suffered, I learned, I changed...
Rizy Mohammed (Glasgow)