What is the ruling on pointing with the index finger at the bier during its procession, and is there a special reward for those who race to carry the bier, and what is the ruling on sitting to receive condolences in a public place after burial?

First: Pointing at the deceased with the index finger has no basis; it is an innovation (bid'ah), based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Whoever introduces into this matter of ours that which does not belong to it, it is to be rejected."

Second: Carrying the deceased is a permissible act and is considered a collective obligation (fard kifayah) for which the doer is rewarded. It is recommended to hasten the pace when walking with the deceased, at a speed greater than a normal walk.

Third: Sitting to receive condolences is permissible, as long as it is free from innovations and objectionable acts. However, if it is accompanied by gatherings for reciting the Quran or feeding the mourners, then it is considered an innovation.