Is it obligatory to walk near the funeral procession and participate in the burial to receive the reward?

The questioner : And another questioner says: Is it obligatory to walk near the funeral procession and participate in the burial so that I may receive the reward? This is because I often arrive late, and it is sometimes being buried, and I do not participate in the burial or in carrying the body.

The Shaykh : Yes. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: So the reward is great in following the funeral procession. But whoever attends it until the prayer is performed over it, he has one qirat. And whoever follows it until it is buried, he has two qirats. If you ask: If one attends the prayer without following it from the house, does he get the qirat? The answer is that it appears he does, because the important thing is the prayer over the deceased. If that is accomplished, it is hoped that the person will receive the qirat. Then, if he follows and walks with it until it is buried, he has two qirats, whether he participates in the burial or sits and waits until it is buried, because the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) did not condition that one must participate in the burial. As for being near it, if there is no crowding or harm, it is better for the person to be ready to participate in carrying the body. But if there is crowding and harm, the person should take the path that is easier for him and for others. Yes.

The questioner : May Allah reward you with good.