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Is holding a memorial service for a deceased person, known for doing good deeds and benefiting people, and aimed at reminding future generations of his works so they may emulate them, considered ostentation (mura'ah) which is forbidden by Sharia?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The ruling on eulogizing varies depending on its intent. If its purpose is to renew grief and it is accompanied by forbidden acts, then it is not permissible; indeed, it may be considered a form of wailing (niyaha), which is prohibited. However, if it is to mention the good qualities of the deceased without exaggeration or falsehood, and it is not taken as a regular custom, then it is permissible. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, forbade elegies that incite grief, but merely praising the deceased truthfully is permissible.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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