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How Do Buddhists Approach Death1/3/2018 Buddhism holds death in high regard. Buddhists believe in reincarnation and treats death as a step towards nirvana, each one bringing the soul closer to complete spiritual enlightenment. Such a belief celebrates the ascent of the soul from the body rather than the death and decay of the body itself. Buddhism has several traditions and rituals that express these profound beliefs. Buddhist funeral services in Singapore respect these beautiful traditions and, in the best of their abilities, enact them solemnly. Like Christianity, the several types of Buddhism offer varied ways to approach death. But common in all of them are certain practices that family members are to observe. Here are a few:
Guests, on the other hand, also have a number of things to follow when attending a Buddhist funeral. Here are things guests should remember:
Upon a loved one’s death, rituals and traditions are set into motion. First, the family needs to decide what kind of burial their loved one is to receive: should he be cremated or buried. Organ donation is allowed as long as the deceased is an organ donor. The first service is held two days after death, with the formal mourning period usually lasting for 90 days. If a wake should be held, the body should rest in a calm and peaceful room. The coffin should be simple. The deceased should be dressed in plain, everyday clothes. An altar with the image of the deceased, a figure of Buddha, flowers, and incense may be erected beside the casket, which should be open for viewing of the guests. Chants can be performed during the wake. This may be done live by monks or lay persons or may be pre-recorded for the wake. However, it should be remembered that chanting should only be done for practical reasons and not just to satisfy tradition. Other traditions not related to religion can be conducted, as long as they do not conflict with the precepts of Buddhism. The family decides on how long the wake should be. Singapore funeral services are often agreeable to demands regarding religion. Finally, on the morning of the burial (or the cremation), monks are invited to chant the proper verses. After which, the casket is sealed and brought to the place of burial or the crematorium. Family, guests, and mourners, wearing white rather than black to signify grief and seriousness, may carry the casket to the hearse, and follow behind in a solemn procession. Get to know Buddhism more now and be immersed in their beautiful respect for life and death.
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