Attending a Funeral: A Gesture of Compassion and Humanity
Attending someone’s funeral without ever knowing them might seem like an unusual act of compassion, but for many individuals, it is a way to show respect and solidarity as a mortal chapter comes to an end. Such was the scene on Monday when thousands gathered to pay their respects at the prayers for Liodmila Shtshebynia, a Russian expat who had recently converted to Islam before her sudden demise. The news of her passing was shared on social media, calling upon residents to stand in as her family in her absence.
Among the attendees at Liodmila’s funeral was Fouzia A, a Bahraini expat residing in Dubai for the past two years. She shared her motivation for attending the funeral, stating that it was the least she could do in such a situation. This act of kindness and solidarity is not uncommon in the UAE, where individuals come together to support those in need, even if they are strangers. Fouzia’s husband also accompanied her to the funeral, witnessing the outpouring of support from the community.
For Fouzia, attending funerals of people she doesn’t know has become a habit of compassion. Whenever she hears about a funeral for someone without family, she tries to rearrange her schedule to be present and offer her support. This sense of community and interconnectedness is a prominent characteristic of the UAE, where residents often come together to help those in need, regardless of their background or circumstances.
In addition to attending funerals, Fouzia has also been actively involved in assisting those affected by natural disasters, such as the heavy rains that hit the UAE in April. By joining WhatsApp groups and coordinating relief efforts, she has demonstrated her commitment to helping others in times of need. This dedication to serving the community highlights the strong sense of compassion and unity present among residents in the UAE.
Muhammad Fariduddin, a Canadian expat living in Sharjah, is another individual who regularly attends funerals of people he doesn’t know. As a member of a WhatsApp group called ‘Janaza Alerts,’ he receives notifications about funeral events across the UAE. This practice is deeply rooted in his Islamic faith, as he believes in fulfilling the obligation to attend the funeral prayers of other Muslims, regardless of whether he knows them or not.
The religious motivation behind attending funerals is significant for individuals like Fariduddin, who see it as a way to earn spiritual rewards and seek forgiveness for themselves. In Islam, attending a funeral prayer is considered a virtuous act that brings immense blessings and good deeds to the individual. By participating in such rituals, individuals not only show respect for the deceased but also strengthen their own faith and connection to their community.
In conclusion, attending the funeral of someone you don’t know may seem like a small gesture, but for many individuals, it is a profound act of compassion and humanity. In the UAE, residents come together to support and stand in as family for those who have no one in their final moments. This sense of community and solidarity reflects the values of compassion, kindness, and empathy that are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the country. By extending a helping hand to strangers in times of need, individuals like Fouzia and Fariduddin exemplify the true spirit of humanity and compassion in action.
