The Ruling on Praying for the Deceased

Q: Since my mother passed away, I have been praying two rak'ahs for her. Is this practice valid or not?

A: It is not valid. What is prescribed is to make du'a' for her, to seek mercy for her, to give charity on her behalf, or to perform Hajj or 'Umrah on her behalf. All of this is prescribed and beneficial for her. As for praying for her, there is no basis for it, because it has not been prescribed for us to pray on behalf of the dead. However, there is nothing wrong with Hajj, and likewise there is nothing wrong with 'Umrah, and with charity. All of this is prescribed, as is making du'a' and seeking mercy for her, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: . He did not say: "Pray for him." Rather: . So you make du'a' for your mother, seek forgiveness for her, and ask for mercy for her, a high station in Paradise, and the forgiveness of her sins. You also give charity on her behalf with whatever Allah has made easy, such as food, money, or clothing, for the poor and those in need. All of this is good.