VA: MUSLIM FUNERAL TO BE HELD AT ARLINGTON CEMETERY

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/11/2006) - On Thursday, January 12, the family of Staff Sgt. Ayman Taha and other American Muslims will perform an Islamic funeral service in Arlington cemetery. Staff Sgt. Taha was killed recently in Ballad, Iraq, while preparing a weapon’s cache for demolition. The service will be led by Imam Mohammed Magid of the All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS). (In case of rain, the funeral service will be held at the ADAMS Center in Sterling, Va., with burial to follow at Arlington Cemetery. Call contact below for details.)

WHERE: The service will originate from the cemetery administration building.
WHEN: Service will begin at 1:30 p.m.

During Islamic funerals, those praying stand in rows facing the direction of Mecca, with the prayer leader in front. The body (or bodies) is placed in front of the congregation. The worshipers make a personal intention to offer a funeral prayer. They say “God is Great,” then fold their hands on their chests. The opening chapter of the Quran, Islam’s revealed text, is read quietly. Prayers are recited for the deceased, the Prophets Abraham and Muhammad and for the Muslim community. Saying “peace be to you” concludes the prayer. The entire funeral prayer is performed while standing.