What happens at a Buddhist Funeral?
Throughout the world, various branches of Buddhism observe distinct rites and customs. Nevertheless, at the heart of their faith lies a belief in the cycle of life (saṃsāra), reincarnation, virtuous actions, and enlightenment. The rituals surrounding death and funerals aim to aid the departed in their journey ahead.
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Understanding Buddhist Perspectives on Death
Similar to Hinduism and Sikhism, Buddhists embrace the concept of reincarnation and the release of the soul. They view death as an inherent aspect of the cycle of life (saṃsāra), wherein an individual's actions shape their subsequent lives through reincarnation. This belief is fundamental across all Buddhist traditions and forms the basis of Buddhist funeral practices. For many Buddhists, the ultimate aspiration is to transcend the cycle of birth and rebirth to attain nirvana. This entails relinquishing worldly desires and the notion of self, ultimately achieving complete enlightenment.
Saṃsāra and the Six Realms
Aligned with the notion of saṃsāra, Buddhists believe that after death, individuals are reborn into one of six realms based on their karma:
Gods Realm (DEVA): Those craving power and wealth but lacking compassion or wisdom. Pleasures in this realm hinder attainment of nirvana.
Human Realm (MANUSYA): The sole realm where one can achieve nirvana and break free from saṃsāra.
Demi-god Realm (ASURA): Individuals who are mighty and influential but plagued by impatience, anger, and envy.
Animal Realm (TIRYAGYONI): Beings characterized by ignorance, foolishness, and an absence of aspiration for change. They are believed to prey on each other and suffer as a consequence.
Hungry Ghosts (PRETA): Those plagued by compulsive behavior, obsession, and addiction. Described as having minuscule mouths and insatiable appetites.
Hell Realm (NARAKA): Individuals consumed by anger, aggression, and burdened with negative karma such as theft, deceit, and adultery in their lifetime. This realm is viewed as a transient state; upon exhausting their negative karma, individuals are afforded another opportunity.
Buddhist Funeral Observances
Buddhist tradition dictates that death should occur in a serene environment, with loved ones present. Together, they reflect upon the deceased's virtuous deeds, hoping it will benefit their future reincarnations. Moreover, family and friends may perform acts of merit on behalf of the departed.
Following death, the body should remain untouched for at least four hours as Buddhists believe the soul does not immediately depart. The body is then cooled, cleansed, and dressed in everyday attire.
Cremation is the preferred method of disposal due to the Buddhist belief in reincarnation, considering the physical body merely a vessel for the soul. Additionally, Buddhists endorse organ donation as a virtuous act.
Expectations at a Buddhist Funeral
Typically held in a monastery or at the family residence, Buddhist funeral services feature monks leading the ceremony, reciting sermons, and chanting sutras (Buddhist funeral prayers). The deceased is presented in a modest open casket adorned with their image and that of Buddha. Mourners may offer candles, fruits, flowers, and incense. Following the ceremony, the casket is sealed and transported to the crematorium, with friends and family participating in the procession.
Buddhist Funeral Customs
Customs at Buddhist funerals include:
Offering cloth to monks on behalf of the deceased
Decorating the altar with images of the deceased and Buddha
Pouring water from a vessel into an overflowing cup
Walking with sticks to symbolize the need for support in grief
Reciting appropriate sutras or prayers
Bringing offerings such as flowers, candles, and fruits
Burning incense
Ringing gongs or bells
Etiquette at a Buddhist Funeral
Upon arrival, mourners quietly approach the altar, bow slightly, and fold their hands in prayer, reflecting on the life of the deceased. While attendees are encouraged to join in chanting, silence is acceptable if unfamiliar with the chants. Mourners typically follow the cues of attending monks regarding seating and standing.
Duration of a Buddhist Funeral
Depending on the preferences of the deceased and their family, a Buddhist funeral generally lasts between 45 to 75 minutes.
Attire for a Buddhist Funeral
Family members traditionally wear white or cover themselves with white cloth, while mourners don simple black or dark attire. Displaying expensive or ostentatious clothing and jewelry is considered inappropriate and contrary to Buddhist funeral customs.
Buddhist Mourning Period
After the funeral, the bereaved family may host a reception for continued condolences. It's common for Buddhists to hold multiple services during the mourning period, typically on the 3rd, 7th, 49th, and 100th days after the loved one's passing.
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