X17 XCLUSIVE - Sources Tell X17, Jacko's Family Planning A Muslim Funeral
Posted on Tue Jun 30th, 2009 9:35am PDT By X17 Staff
As you know, Michael Jackson reportedly converted to Islam late last year, and a source close to the family tells X17 may legendary pop singer will have a traditional Muslim burial:
- "The family is considering following the Muslim burial traditions because they believe Michael would have wanted to be laid to rest in keeping with his new-found religious beliefs. Michael's brother Jermaine is educating the family as to the special rites because he feels it's important to bury his brother according to the Muslim way."
Jackson had previously expressed interest in joining the Muslim faith years before, but it wasn't until last November that he finally pledged allegiance to the Koran and adopted the name "Mikaeel" (the name of one of Allah’s angels). His older brother Jermaine (who later took the Muslim name Muhammad Abdul-Aziz) has been a Muslim for two decades, and most of Jackson's bodyguards are part of the Nation of Islam.
For a Muslim burial, the body has to be cleaned, but ideally not embalmed, and wrapped in a white sheet, and it must be buried facing Mecca. The Koran also dictates that the body be buried as close to the place of death and as soon after death as possible. There should be no tombstone near the grave.
Though it's not yet clear exactly what funeral arrangements have been made, it appears as though Jackson may make his final appearance in a white horse drawn carriage later this week. While we're not sure if Michael put this request in writing (in his 2002 will or in a later draft), perhaps his handlers and brother Jermaine influenced this decision?
Think this is how Jackson will say goodbye to the world?