It is narrated from Ibn Shihab that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, and Sayyiduna Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, and Sayyiduna Umar ibn Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, and all the caliphs used to walk in front of the funeral procession, and Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with them both, also used to do so.

It is narrated from Rabi'ah bin Abdullah bin Hudair that he saw Sayyiduna Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) walking ahead in the funeral procession of Sayyidah Zaynab bint Jahsh (may Allah be pleased with her).

It is narrated from Hisham bin Urwah that I always saw my father Urwah walking in front of the funeral procession, until he would reach Baqi and sit there, remaining seated until the funeral had passed by.

Ibn Shihab said: Walking behind the funeral is a mistake, that is, it is against the Sunnah.