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 Sympathy > Funeral Etiquette
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Within the Buddhist faith customs may vary depending on culture and sects. There are however, a few traditional rituals in all Buddhist funeral services. They include chanting, incense burning and a memorial service. Historically, Buddhists have cremated their deceased, however burial is becoming more and more common with Chinese Buddhists. Those attending the funeral service are required to pay their condolences to the deceased and the family prior to the service at the funeral home. Wearing black or dark colours are not required. Wearing conservative clothing is the most appropriate, however, the colour red is frowned upon. If the funeral service takes place in the Temple, it is required to remove your footwear. During the funeral service a family member will initiate the service by offering a eulogy and present a life history about the deceased. Chanting sacred words will then take place. First a direct family member will ignite the incense and make a ritualistic offering. The family usually wears white because it is the colour for grieving, they will sit at the front of the room and accept condolences from those in attendance. When approaching the casket a simple bow is all that is required. After the funeral service interment will take place at a cemetery.
The family will pay special tribute to the deceased after the first year anniversary and the third year anniversary, ending the official grieving period. The first memorial gathering will take place within the first 7 days after the funeral. Friends and family will gather either at the temple or a family members home to remember and commemorate the deceased. It is appropriate when attending memorial services to bring with you gifts of food, preferably vegetarian plates or donations made in the name of the deceased |
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