August 02, 2005

The Unpretentious Dead

I think I found another aspect of Islam that I appreciate, though I would like to know more about the thoughts behind it.

Some Muslims, namely those of the Wahhabi sect, find it appropriate to bury the dead, no matter how great and powerful in this life, in an unmarked grave, as was the case for King Fahd of Saudi Arabia. (Read story here). You have to hand it to any King willing to be buried in an unmarked grave. There certainly haven't been many of those throughout history.

I like the unassuming manner of this, though I would be concerned if it led to a disregard for history. Fortunately, I think most would agree that by and large the Muslim has no problem remembering her history.

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