Answered by: Shaykh Ahmed Bin Mohamed Umarji
Question:
Can you pay for a non-muslim funeral?
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Answer:
There is a concept or relationship in Islam known as Muwasat, which means a relationship based on sympathy, kindness and concern. It includes charitable help and support, condolence and consolation and any well-meaning attitude of wishing well Barring disbelievers who are at war with Mus¬lims, this kind of relationship is permissible with all other non-Muslims. 1
Keeping this concept in mind it is permissible to help needy non-muslims cover their burial costs. If the burial process includes un-Islamic rituals such as cremation it should be avoided.
Only Allah knows best
Written by Shaykh Ahmed Bin Mohamed Umarji
Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham
1 Ma’ariful Quran Volume 2 Page 57