Standing in honor of the martyrs

A: Some people stand in silence for a while in memory of martyrs or dignitaries or as a way of honoring and mourning them. This is considered Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) and a Bid`ah (innovation in religion), as it was not done during the lifetime of the Prophet (peace be upon him), his Sahabah (Companions), or the Salaf (righteous predecessors). Similarly, these acts do not conform to the proprieties of Tawhid (Monotheism) and sincere glorification of Allah Alone. In fact, some Muslims who lack knowledge of their religion imitate the non-Muslims in this Bid`ah and follow their bad habits and exaggeration in honoring their rulers and celebrities, whether they are alive or dead. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prohibited imitation of the disbelievers. It is an Islamic tradition and religiously known right to pray for the dead Muslims, give Sadaqah (voluntary charity) on their behalf, remember their virtues, and refrain from their evils. There are many other etiquette religiously stated and encouraged to be followed by Muslims towards their fellow Muslims, alive or dead. However, standing silently in memory of the martyrs or well-known figures is not among them. (Part No. 9; Page No. 78) Actually, the basic principles of Islam reject such a ritual.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.