Is it obligatory for the family to pray over the absent deceased and recite the Quran for him, and is holding mourning ceremonies and offering food on the third and fortieth days after death legislated in Islam?

Firstly, it is permissible to travel to pray over a relative or dear friend who passed away in another country, provided it is feasible, because it is a journey for a legitimate religious purpose. As for praying over an absent deceased person, scholars have differed on this, as it is only preserved that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, prayed over the Negus. Some scholars, like Ibn Taymiyyah, believe that the Prophet’s prayer over the Negus was specific to him because there was no one to pray over him in his country, and this is a strong opinion. Others believe that praying over an absent person is for eminent figures of the Ummah, such as scholars and just rulers. According to this view, there is no objection to praying over the deceased, whether present or absent.

Secondly, gathering to recite the Quran and dedicating its reward to the deceased is an innovation (bid'ah), whether for a fee or not. If it is for a fee, then it is unlawful. As for reciting the Quran and dedicating its reward to the deceased without gathering or a fee, there are two opinions: one is that it is permissible and the reward reaches the deceased, and the other is that it is not legislated due to lack of evidence.

Thirdly, the act of the deceased's family holding a special Quran recitation and inviting people for food after three days or forty days is an innovation, and every innovation is misguidance. The claim that the spirit of the deceased visits the house after forty days is a lie with no basis.