Is Cremation or Burials Preferred For Singapore Buddhist Funerals?

Unbeknownst to most of us, cremation holds a significance in Buddhist Funerary Rites and is preferred over burials in many Buddhism. Cremation carries both symbolic and spiritual associations with regards to Buddhism.

Ashes To Ashes, Dust To Dust

Buddhists like the concept of cremation where the physical body is reduced to ashes and returned to the natural elements of the Earth as it symbolises the impermanence of life. This is aligned with Buddhists’ belief of impermanence (Anicca).

Release From Samsara

As per shared on our Singapore Buddhist Funerals page, Buddhists’ afterlife beliefs involes the cycle of birth, death and then rebirth (Samsara). To some, cremation is a way to allow the soul to break free and be released from its physical attachment to the body which helps transition the soul to the afterlife, catalysing its rebirth.

Cleansing Of The Soul

Fire is thought to purify the soul in Buddhist beliefs and hence is thought to purify the decedent’s soul and to cleanse the soul of impurities in both the physical and spiritual realm.

Practical Reasons

In Singapore, land is scare and the burial plot has to be purchased by the government. It is relatively affordable at less than a thousand for one adult space but take note that the land has a leasehold of 15 years of which the body might have to be exhumed (dug up) and cremated should the government need the land back. So technically, you are not really buying the space but it is more like you are renting the space for burial. In fact, even when money is used to rent the space, you cannot choose exactly which plot of land you want for your loved one to be buried in. It is allocated to you by the relevant authorities. This is unlike most other countries where land is aplenty and plots of land are usually sold to families at a hefty price for perpetual use.