Muhammad Ali's Family Preparing Muslim Traditions for Funeral

— -- A Muslim prayer service for Muhammad Ali today drew thousands of mourners to Louisville, Kentucky, the boxer's hometown. Together, they prayed over the three-time heavyweight champion's body ahead of tomorrow's scheduled burial.

Ali, who is often remembered for his showmanship in the boxing ring, his political activism and dedication to humanitarian causes, died last week in an Arizona hospital at the age of 74. He will be buried on Friday, following a funeral procession and an interfaith service. Luminaries including former President Bill Clinton, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and comedian Billy Crystal will attend the event.

Ali's family planned the funeral for 10 years with him and paid careful consideration to his Muslim faith.

Here's a closer look at Islamic funerals and burial rites:

Preparation and Wrapping of the Body

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy group, outlined the pillars of an Islamic funeral this week and noted that family members often assist in the rituals.

First, family members participate in washing the body. Men will wash a man's body, while women wash a woman’s body. For children, either men or women may handle the process.

After the washing, a shroud is used for wrapping the body. It is supposed to be a clean, preferably white cloth that covers the whole body. The shroud is tied at the head and feet, according to CAIR.

Prayers for the Dead

Once the body is prepared, family members and those praying stand in rows facing the direction of Mecca, with the prayer leader in front. The body is placed in front of the congregation and worshipers make a personal intention to offer a funeral prayer. At this time, they say “God is great,” and will fold their hands on their chests.

Next, the opening chapter of the Quran, Islam’s revealed text, is read quietly. There are also prayers for the deceased, the Prophets Abraham and Muhammad, and for the Muslim community, with the refrain “Peace be to you” at the conclusion of each prayer.

The funeral prayer is all done while standing.

The Procession and Burial

Mourners often walk in front of or beside the body during the procession. Often, this is a silent time, CAIR notes.

Caskets are not used unless there are conditions that warrant it and the body is laid in the grave. Each person at theburial will then symbolically help fill the grave by pouring three handfuls of soil.