Friday, January 29, 2010

The Importance Of Buddhist Funeral Rites

By Shiela Wong

One of the most widespread religions in the world, Buddhism derives its main principles from the teachings of the Buddha. Buddhism entails quest for the Ultimate Truth as well as a spirit of compassion and true love for every creature.

Buddhist funeral rites also rely on these basic tenets of the religion. There are certain mandatory rites that need to be adhered to during the funeral of a deceased person. These rites are meant to ensure that the deceased is elevated to a higher stage. Prayers are chanted invoking the positive energies associated with the deceased for his or her ultimate deliverance from this cycle of life.

The funeral rituals start with giving the deceased a traditional wash. Buddhist monks chant different religious scriptures, and these chants are believed to give the deceased the right guidance to achieve spiritual liberation. Then the Lord Buddha's teachings that emphasize on the significance of kindness and concern are read out loud by the monks. Meanwhile, the body is prepared for the final journey. The relatives normally keep some coins in the casket of the deceased. This is supposed to help the deceased cross the River of Three Hells to reach his ultimate destination.

The casket is then put before the altar at home for the loved ones to pay their respects. Attendees are required to pray for the deceased and the family and friends give their condolences. The monks carrying out the ritual keep reciting the sutras along with the proceedings. Once the recital is complete, people bow at the altar to pay their last respects. As the visitors start leaving, the family members present a gift to each other to show gratitude for partaking in their sorrow.

The family can decide upon whether to bury the body or cremate it according to their familial customs, once all these essential rituals are over. The different ceremonies are a way of bringing peace and acceptance to the family members of the deceased as they know their prayers are aimed at elevating the status of the departed in his life after death. - 2364

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