Muslims represent the second largest religious community in Slovenia, and their number has been increased over the years due to migration and settlement in Slovenia. Accordingly, there is a growing need for a greater understanding of Muslims, their understanding of Islamic precepts and religious practice. One of the more important religious rituals is a funeral, which is quite different from the Christian funeral. Both Muslims and non-Muslims are asking themselves whether attending the funeral of a non-religious person is religiously permissible. At the same time, the lack of understanding of the religious customs of the other arouses fear in man and consequently closes the door to interreligious and intercultural dialogue, as well as integration. This paper sheds light on the Islamic view of death and customs related to Islamic funeral practice. It pays special attention to the description of funeral customs among Muslims in Slovenia and the exposure and explanation of deviations from Islamic regulations, while also touching on issues related to Muslim cemeteries in Slovenia.
|
