The Ruling on Crying and Lamentation at the Time of Death

Question:
A questioner says: A father lost his son in a car accident, and he passed away. This father and the mother were deeply affected. Is there a word regarding patience and this trial? Because when the father passes by his son’s clothes, or something related to his child, he cries.

Answer:
Crying alone does no harm, and this is something a person cannot control. This is a sign of mercy. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) cried when his son Ibrahim died. He said, “Indeed, Allah does not punish for the tears of the eye or the grief of the heart, but He punishes for this,” meaning the tongue, or He shows mercy. Crying alone for the deceased does no harm. As for what is forbidden is lamentation and dissatisfaction with the decree and destiny of Allah. This is the forbidden matter, and it is among the major sins. So distinguish between lamentation and crying. Yes.