The Significance Of Buddhist Funeral Rituals
Written by Danny Wong on December 22nd, 2009
Buddhism is one of the most popular religions practised across the globe. The main tenets of the religion are based on the teachings of Buddha. The followers of Buddhism are expected to show boundless love for all and try to attain the Ultimate Truth.
These basic principles of Buddhism are evident in the rites followed in a Buddhist Funeral. After a person dies in a Buddhist family, certain rites have to be followed in order to make sure that the departed soul rises to a higher stage of life after death. Prayers are done invoking the goodness of the departed soul and hopes are made for a peaceful life after death for the deceased.
The first task in funeral rites is that of giving a traditional wash to the body. After that comes the stage of chanting of religious scriptures by the monks, thereby directing the soul to the path of spiritual liberation. The teachings of Lord Buddha, which speak of the value of practising virtue and compassion in life, are recited aloud. Meanwhile, the body is prepared for the last journey. The relatives usually keep some money in the casket of the deceased. This is done to pay for the deceased\’s journey across the mythical River of Three Hells.
Then the friends and relatives come and pay their last respects to the deceased as the casket is placed at the altar. While friends and relatives give condolences, visitors are expected to pray for the deceased. Priests who perform the rites continue to chant the appropriate sutras. Everyone present have to bow before the altar when this recital is over. As the visitors start leaving, the family members give a gift to each other to show gratitude for sharing their sorrow.
Once these rites are completed, the family can decide to bury or cremate the body based on their family beliefs. The different ceremonies are a way of bringing peace and acceptance to the family members of the departed as they know their prayers are aimed at elevating the status of the deceased in his after life.
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