Buddhist Cremation

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According to the belief of Buddhism, the cycle of saṃsāra (world), in which a Buddhist's deeds during life and all past incarnations of life influence future incarnations, including death. Most Buddhist funeral practices are based on the notion that the soul reincarnates after death, even though Buddhism comes in numerous forms.

What are the prime rituals followed after death in the Buddhist community?

The followers of Buddhism believe that a serene setting is appropriate for death.
It is also believed that the soul does not instantly leave the body when one's breathing stops, hence, it is recommended that the deceased's body not be touched or moved for at least four hours following death.
Prior to the body being prepared for cremation, it must be kept cool. The deceased should be dressed in their regular clothes.

Which rituals are performed in a Buddhist Funeral Ceremony?

Funeral and cremation rites in Buddhist communities can take many different forms. A Buddhist monastery is usually an ideal location for prayers after death. But some families choose their home as well for gathering. The majority of practicing Buddhists belong to a group that may supply a teacher to conduct the funeral and cremation service, along with Buddhist funeral readings suitable for the deceased's tradition (as Theravada, Tibetan or Zen).

Monks and other Buddhist community members are asked to read preachings or sermons during the funeral event. Buddhist funeral customs tell that Buddhist monks may lead the chanting of sermons or preachings. While the attendees can choose to sit quietly or join in reciting the sermons.

Buddhist funeral prayers, or sutras, can also be chanted or sung during this time by monks and the mourners.

How does a cremation ritual begin and proceed in a Buddhist community?

Though cremation is typically chosen as the preferred option in the Buddhist community for funeral traditions, a Buddhist may be buried or cremated. The ashes are either scattered, buried, or stored in a beautiful urn at home after the cremation service, which typically occurs at a nearby crematorium.

Buddhist Death Rituals: Burial or Cremation

Buddhism often encourages cremation, but burial is also acceptable.
Usually, the cremation or burial occurs immediately after the funeral.
The funeral is held a few days after the death in certain Buddhist traditions, such as Mahayana Buddhism, to give time for the initial stage of reincarnation.
To adequately prepare the body for cremation, other Buddhist groups hold off on the funeral for a longer period.
They could have to wait a week or a month. Before being buried or cremated, the body should always be left as undisturbed as possible.
Buddhist monks typically perform the last ritual the morning of the cremation or burial. In this chant, the Precepts and the "Three Jewels"—the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha—are referred to as havens.

Why is cremation preferred in Buddhism?

Cremation is the preferred option for Buddhists because it’s believed that it helps the soul leave the dead body and this worldly realm.
It follows the tradition of the Gautama Buddha, who was cremated on a funeral pyre.
Also, in Buddhism, the physical body is considered only as a vessel for the atma or a temporary home for the atma.
Therefore, once a person dies, the body doesn’t hold great significance. Seeing the body reduced to ashes is a powerful reminder of this, and also of the impermanence of all things.

Traditionally, the family will be gathered in a special and separate room or area to witness the cremation. The ashes are deposited in an urn following the cremation process. You can either keep or bury the urn. Ashes might also be scattered to a location that holds special meaning for Buddhists.

How long does the Buddhist Mourning Period last?

A period of mourning, which might vary in duration, is observed by the majority of Buddhist branches.
Some people think that rebirth takes 49 days, hence, they have a 49-day mourning period.
They offer prayers for the deceased every seven days during this time to assist them in transitioning to the afterlife.
According to several traditions, this is a very significant period. The ethical purity of the surviving family members and the correct execution of the rituals, they believe, guarantee a peaceful transition into the next life.
On the other hand, some Buddhists observe 100 days of mourning.
They don't host or go to celebrations like weddings and baby showers during this time.
On the hundredth day, a ceremony could be organized to commemorate the successful rebirth of the deceased person's soul and the end of the grieving phase.

What are the post-funeral ceremonies in the Buddhist Community?

A small and intimate gathering may be held after a Buddhist funeral, where mourners are invited to pay their respects to the departed soul. Apart from it, they can evoke and share the beautiful memories of that person. Generally, it depends on the family traditions as well as other Buddhist funeral customs. Buddhist funeral customs occasionally suggest that services be held on the third, seventh, fifty-ninth, and one-hundredth days following the death of the deceased, although this is up to the grieving.

Which flowers are preferred for the Buddhist funeral?

Those who attend Buddhist funeral rituals should inquire in advance about whether sending flowers is appropriate (flowers are typically sent prior to the event or presented discreetly). To symbolize grief, Buddhist funeral flowers are usually white. It is best not to send red flowers.

What should one wear to a Buddhist Funeral ceremony?

In Buddhism, the color white represents grief, and the deceased person's family wears it. Any muted hue, such as black, may be worn by other funeral attendees. Vibrant hues are not suitable. Wearing red is particularly discouraged for Buddhists, as it represents joy.

Wearing a dress, skirt, or shirt and tie is not appropriate if the funeral is being held at a temple. In order to sit on the floor and meditate, one should wear loose, comfortable clothing. It is recommended that mourners take off their shoes while in the temple.

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