In many Muslim countries, we often

A: First, the most correct opinion maintained by scholars is that it is impermissible to extend good deeds on behalf of the Muslim dead, except for what is stated in the Shar` (Islamic Law) like, supplicating, seeking Allah's forgiveness for the dead, offering Hajj, `Umrah, charity, sacrificing and making up for the obligatory Sawm (fast) on their behalf. Second, it is impermissible to recite the Qur'an with the intention of giving the reward to the dead, for this has not been reported from Al-Mustafa (Prophet Muhammad) (peace be upon him). Moreover, as was mentioned in the first paragraph, it is impermissible for any Muslim to offer good deeds on behalf of the Muslim dead, except for what is already stated in the Shari`ah. It is authentically reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to visit the graves and supplicate Allah (Exalted be He) for the sake of the dead by reciting invocations that he taught his Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet), among which is: Peace be upon you, O dwellers of the abodes of the believers and the Muslims. In shaa-Allah (if Allah wills), we shall join you, we supplicate to Allah to grant well-being for ourselves and for you. It was not proven that the Prophet (peace be upon him) recited any Surah (Qur'anic Chapter) of the Qur'an, or any Ayah (Qur'anic verse) to give its reward to the dead. However, he used to visit graves often. Thus, if reciting Qur'an for the dead had been permissible, he (peace be upon him) would have done and clarified it (Part No. 9; Page No. 49) for his Sahabah to guide them to the reward of this out of mercy for the Ummah (nation based on one creed), and to fulfill the duty of conveying the Message, as Allah (Exalted be He) described him (peace be upon him) by saying: Verily, there has come unto you a Messenger (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) from amongst yourselves (i.e. whom you know well). It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty. He (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) is anxious over you (to be rightly guided, to repent to Allâh, and beg Him to pardon and forgive your sins in order that you may enter Paradise and be saved from the punishment of the Hell-fire); for the believers (he صلى الله عليه وسلم is) full of pity, kind, and merciful. However, since he did not do this despite the existence of the reason to do so, this indicates that it is permissible. Moreover, the Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them) knew this, and they followed his way (peace be upon him) and were satisfied to take admonition and supplicate to Allah for the dead when visiting them. It has not been proven that they ever recited Qur'an for the dead, for reciting to them is a Bid`ah (innovation in religion). It is authentically reported that he (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who introduces anything into this matter of ours (Islam) that is not part of it will have it rejected. .Accordingly, it is impermissible to hold a session for reciting the entire Qur'an for the dead.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.