Making haste in burying the dead

Q: If part of the deceased’s body has been consumed by disease, fire, or eaten (Part No. 8; Page No. 372) by an animal, should the rest of the body be washed? If a man dies and his son is studying abroad, can the dead body be preserved for three days before burial until his son arrives? If a person touches a dead body, should they perform Wudu' (ablution), Ghusl (ceremonial bath) or neither of them?

A: First, the remaining part of the dead body should be washed, enshrouded, the Funeral Prayer offered, and buried.Second, it is impermissible to delay burying a dead body until one of the relatives of the dead arrives. However, it is permissible in case of necessity, such as if it is a case of murder and the burial is delayed until the murderer is caught.Third, touching a dead body does not invalidate Wudu' or require Ghusl, unless a person touches the private parts of the dead without a barrier. In this case, a person's Wudu' is invalidated.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.