Is the meal that is served after the death of a Muslim a Sunnah or something that people have made on their own?

 Question: Is the meal that is served after the death of a Muslim a Sunnah or something that people have made on their own?

Meal after the death 💀 

Answer: The meal or "invitation" that is given after the death of a Muslim is not the practice of the Prophet ﷺ or the Companions. Rather, it is the responsibility of the grieving family to pray for them, console them, and provide food if necessary.

🔹 It is narrated in the Hadith —

When Hazrat Ja'far ibn Abu Talib (RA) was martyred, the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:

 "Prepare food for the family of Ja'far, for they have been busy with matters that have prevented them from preparing food."

(Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi)

That is, not to have food brought from the deceased's house, but rather neighbors and relatives should send food for them.

🔹 But what happens in our society these days is – gathering people at the house of the deceased and feeding them, sometimes for 3 days, 7 days, 40 days, and even on the occasion of an anniversary. These are not Sunnahs, but rather man-made customs.

📌 Fatwas of the Ulama:

Imam Nabawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said:

“Gathering people on behalf of the family of the deceased and feeding them is a newly invented (bid’ah) and disliked.”

(Al-Majmu’, 5/306)

Hanafi jurists say:

“Inviting people to feed them from the house of the deceased is makruh and bid’ah.”

(Fatawa Hindiya, 1/166)

✅ Therefore, according to Islam —

Making frequent supplications for the deceased,

reciting the Quran with the intention of seeking reward in Islam, giving charity,

and sending food to the family out of compassion – these are Sunnah and good deeds.

🛑 Disclaimer: This blog is for general Islamic awareness and friendly guidance only. For personal issues, always consult a qualified Islamic scholar or local Shariah board. Every situation is unique, and rulings can vary based on details.