Understanding Buddhist Funerals: A Journey of Compassion and Respect

Buddhist funerals are deeply rooted in the principles of compassion, respect, and filial piety. They are meant to honor the deceased, provide solace to the bereaved, and facilitate the journey of the soul towards in its afterlife. This article looks into the key aspects of Buddhist funerals, exploring the rituals, traditions, and underlying philosophies that guide these solemn ceremonies.

Philosophical Foundations

At the heart of Buddhist funeral practices is the belief in samsara, the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. Buddhists view death not as an end but as a transition to another state of existence. This belief shapes the funeral rituals, which aim to create positive karma for the deceased and support their journey to a favorable rebirth.

Pre-Funeral Practices

Caring for the Dying: In the final moments of life, Buddhists focus on creating a peaceful environment. Monks or family members may chant sutras (sacred texts) to help the dying person maintain a calm and clear mind. It is believed that the state of mind at the time of death can influence the quality of the next rebirth. In Singapore, sometimes this is done for 8 hours even after death. This is usually done at the place of death, before the body is transferred for the funeral wake. This practice is very rare in today’s society due to practical reasons like preserving the hygienic condition of the premise as well as shortage of hospital/hospice beds.

Bathing Ceremony: After death, the body is typically washed and dressed in simple, clean clothes. This act symbolizes purification and respect for the deceased. For buddhists, the body will be dressed in a black robe called “Hai Qing”.

Funeral Ceremonies

Wake and Viewing: The wake is a time for family and friends to gather, offer their condolences, and pay their respects to the deceased. It often includes chanting by monks and the recitation of Buddhist scriptures, which are believed to help guide the deceased's spirit.
Offerings and Altar: An altar is set up with a portrait of the deceased, incense, flowers, fruits, and other offerings. These offerings are a way to show respect and create merit for the deceased.
Chanting and Prayers: Monks or nuns lead the chanting of sutras and prayers. The most common texts recited include the Amitabha Sutra, which invokes the compassion of Amitabha Buddha to aid in the deceased’s journey to the Pure Land, a blissful state in the afterlife. Typically one monk is sufficient although some family members choose to have more in the belief that it is better for the deceased’s soul.
Eulogy and Remembrances: Family members or close friends may give eulogies, sharing memories and highlighting the virtues of the deceased. This practice helps to celebrate the life lived and provides comfort to the mourners. Harmony Funeral Care has an extensive sound system to facilitate this.

Cremation and Burial

Cremation: In many Buddhist cultures, cremation is the preferred method of body disposal. It is seen as a way to release the soul from the physical body. The ashes are often collected and placed in a columbarium or scattered in a meaningful location. In Singapore, ashes can be scattered only in the sea or in a so called garden as of now.

Burial: In some traditions, especially in regions where cremation is less common, burial may be practiced. The burial ceremony involves chanting, offerings, and prayers, similar to the cremation ceremony.

Post-Funeral Practices

Memorial Services: Buddhist traditions often include several memorial services in the weeks and months following the funeral. These services, held on specific days such as the 7th, 49th, and 100th days after death, are times for family and friends to gather, chant sutras, and make offerings to generate merit for the deceased.
Annual Remembrances: Many families observe annual remembrance rituals on the anniversary of the deceased's passing. These rituals may include visiting the gravesite, offering food, and performing acts of charity in honor of the deceased.

Buddhist funerals entail ceremonies that reflect the core teachings of Buddhism: impermanence, karma, and compassion. They provide a way for the living to honor the dead, express their grief, and support the spiritual journey of the deceased. By understanding and participating in these rituals, individuals can find solace and strength in the face of loss, drawing on the timeless wisdom of the Buddhist tradition.