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Funeral rites are a deeply significant aspect of Buddhist culture, providing solace and structure during a time of loss. Buddhist funerals offer a profound way to honor the deceased and provide comfort to the living.
This guide delves into the various aspects of Buddhist funeral practices, from the foundational beliefs about death and reincarnation to the specific rituals and customs observed. By understanding these elements, you can gain insight into the cultural importance of Buddhist funerals and how they serve to support the bereaved while ensuring the deceased's peaceful transition to the next life.
The Buddhist view of death is rooted in reincarnation and the belief in a continuous cycle of life, death and rebirth.[1] Impermanence is a central belief which applies to death as it is seen as a transition from one’s spirit inhabiting one body, to being reborn in another. Buddhist Funerals, therefore, are not just a time for mourning but also for reflecting on the impermanence of life, remembering the deceased's life, and the continuation of the soul’s journey.
Buddhist Funerals, therefore, are not just a time for mourning but also for reflecting on the impermanence of life, rembering the deceased's life, and the continuation of the soul’s journey.
Beliefs in the reincarnation process depend on the denomination. Theravada Buddhists believe that reincarnation occurs immediately after death. Mahayana Buddhists, the most common denomination in Singapore, believe reincarnation takes weeks.[2]
Funerals are thought to be able to improve the rebirth of the deceased through prayer and offerings.[3]
1) Coffining
The body is washed and dressed, typically in their everyday clothing, to ensure comfort when passing into the next life. [4] This act symbolizes care and respect for the deceased, preparing them for their next journey.
2) Buddhist Wakes
Buddhist Wakes, or memorial services, are typically 3, 5 or 7 days in Singapore, with the odd numbers signifying the “incomplete cycle of life”. [5]
An altar with flowers, incense, candles and fruits to commemorate the deceased is common, along with an altar of Buddha.
Families would usually take turns staying up all night to keep watch of the body during the wake. This vigil reflects the community's solidarity and continuous support for the bereaved family.
3) Buddhist Prayers
Monks might be present to chant Sutras for the deceased, which is believed to provide a peaceful and auspicious environment for the soul to leave the body without any pain or suffering.[6] Sounds or music such as from bells are also common to achieve the same purpose. These prayers aim to ease the deceased's transition and ensure a serene departure from the physical world.
4) Cremation
Cremation is seen as a method for the soul to be released from the physical body, thus the chosen method for most Buddhists. The act of cremation aligns with the belief in impermanence and the release of the soul from its earthly vessel.
5) Post-Cremation
Mahayana Buddhists believe in a 49-day mourning period, where the soul remains in a state called the “Bardo” before it is reincarnated. During this period, families continue to say prayers and conduct rituals to aid in guiding the deceased’s soul. [7] This extended period of mourning and ritual underscores the ongoing care and support for the deceased's journey to their next life.
1) Dress in Dark Colours - Funeral Attire
Given the sombre nature of a funeral, refrain from wearing bright colours which represent joy (especially refrain from wearing red). A black outfit is the common. Refrain from wearing jewellery and other lavish representations of wealth, as these can be seen as inappropriate for the occasion.
2) Pay Your Respects by Bowing with a Joss Stick
Visitors are typically expected to bow once to the deceased, with a single joss stick in both hands to pay their respects. A member of the family may reciprocate with a bow back, acknowledging your gesture of respect.
3) Follow the Monk’s cues during Chanting
Non-Buddhists are welcomed to observe or join chanting, but please remain silent and refrain from speaking during chanting and follow the directions of the monks. This shows your respect for the religious rituals being performed.
4) Flowers, Banners and Donations
Sending white flowers and banners are accepted in the wake as an expression of condolence.
In Singapore, monetary contributions, known as “Bai Jin” in Chinese, or “Peh Kim” in Hokkien are also common. Contributions are typically used to cover the expenses of the wake by the family. Odd numbers are advised (eg: $30, $50 etc) since even numbers are auspicious.
Donations are voluntary, with chief importance to be sincere in your expression of condolence to the family. Donations typically aid alleviate the financial burden on the grieving family, and helps pay for funeral proceedings.
5) Respect their beliefs, regardless of yours
As with all other religious funerals, please respect the beliefs and traditions of the funeral, regardless of your beliefs. Understanding the meaning behind proceedings aids one in respecting and engaging with them to commemorate the deceased in the way they wanted.
Your presence, empathy and respect will go a long way in remembering and honouring the deceased and provide comfort to their next-of-kin, knowing that they are not alone in grief.
The average price of a Buddhist Funeral in Singapore is $8,127. Compare, filter and sort prices here.
[1] https://www.bristol.ac.uk/religion/buddhist-centre/projects/bdr/chaplains/online-guide.html
[4] https://www.empathy.com/funeral/buddhist-traditions-in-death-and-mourning
[5] https://www.nlb.gov.sg/main/article-detail?cmsuuid=a3bfaffd-f823-4cf1-80a0-888db820bf1d
[6] https://www.singaporeobituary.com/guide-to-buddhist-funeral-prayer-rites/
[7] https://www.singaporeobituary.com/guide-to-buddhist-funeral-prayer-rites/
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