Islamic spiritual rituals in end-of-life care: a review from the lens of Shariah-compliant healthcare

Roslan, Rosazra and Che Mohamad, Che Anuar and Sahidon, 'Atirah and Al-Azmi, Abdul Rahman (2025) Islamic spiritual rituals in end-of-life care: a review from the lens of Shariah-compliant healthcare. In: 1st Asean Conference on Shariah-Compliant Healthcare (ASCOCH 2025), 13th November 2025, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.

PDF (Abstract) - Published Version Download (814kB)

Abstract

Introduction: End-of-life (EOL) care is a critical phase in a patient’s journey, requiring holistic approaches that address not only physical symptoms but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual needs. In Islam, the dying process is a deeply spiritual transition, and Islamic spiritual rituals play a significant role in the EOL care for Muslim patients. In Shariah-compliant healthcare, these rituals not only provide comfort and meaning during their final moments but also reflect ethical obligations rooted in Maqasid al-Shariah, particularly in preserving faith (al-Din) and dignity (al�karamah). This review explores the diversity and significance of Islamic spiritual rituals in EOL care and their integration within modern healthcare settings. Methods: This narrative review employed a comprehensive search of academic databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar) for literature published from 2000 to 2025 using keywords such as “Islamic end-of-life care”, “Islamic spiritual rituals”, “dying in Islam”. Results: Findings reveal a range of core Islamic ritual practices at the EOL, including recitation of the Shahadah, Quranic verses, supplication (du’a), facing the Qiblah, and spiritual presence of family members. The role of healthcare providers in facilitating these rituals varies across settings, often influenced by institutional policies, cultural diversity, and awareness of Islamic bioethical principles. Integration of these practices within healthcare settings would contribute to patient-centred, culturally competent, and Shariah-compliant care. Conclusion: Islamic spiritual rituals are vital components of dignified EOL care for Muslim patients. Recognising and accommodating these practices reflects a commitment to diversity in healthcare and aligns with the ethical principles of Islamic bioethics. Enhancing awareness and institutional support for such rituals can foster compassionate and Shariah-compliant EOL care across diverse clinical settings.

Item Type:	Proceeding Paper (Other)
Additional Information:	6214/124607
Uncontrolled Keywords:	End-of-life care; Islamic bioethics; Islamic spiritual rituals; palliative care
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > B Philosophy (General) B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BL Religion BPK Islamic law. Shari'ah. Fiqh > BPK36 Islamic law (General) R Medicine > R Medicine (General)
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Pharmacy Kulliyyah of Pharmacy > Department of Basic Medical Sciences Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Centre (SASMEC)
Depositing User:	Dr Mohd Haikal Muhammad Halil
Date Deposited:	26 Nov 2025 12:48
Last Modified:	26 Nov 2025 13:02
Queue Number:	2025-11-Q155
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/124607

Actions (login required)

View Item