Funeral Rituals in Hinduism and Buddhism
Autor: Joshua • November 12, 2018 • 1,255 Words (6 Pages) • 548 Views
...
Hindus have a mourning period and memorial events. Alternatively, Buddhists have eulogies and tributes at the funeral. The day after the cremation, the karta will return to the crematory and gather the ashes. Traditionally, the ashes should be immersed in the Ganges River, but now there acceptable substitutes. The mourning period lasts for 13 days, which starts after the cremation of the deceased. The family of the deceased will stay at home and receive visitors. Mourning rituals may differ depending on the community. “Throughout the mourning period, the rite of “preta-karma” will be performed, which assists the disembodied spirit of the deceased to obtain a new body for reincarnation” (Everplans). One year after the death, the family will go to a memorial event called “sraddha,” which pays respect to the deceased.
Hinduism and Buddhism are both ancient religions and originated in the Indian subcontinent. However, they have many differences when it comes to their rituals. Flowers may be offered, but bringing food is not part of the Hindu practice. Peace and serenity are symbols of a Buddhist funeral. An altar is set up to display a picture of the deceased and of the Buddha, along with offerings of candles, flowers, fruit, and incense. An open casket will be present with a karta accompanying it, and hymns and mantras are recited. According to Buddhist’s traditions, a service may be organized by monks, who will deliver a sermon and perform Buddhist rites.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Works Cited
“Hindu Funeral Customs, Rituals, and Services: What to know.” Funeralwise, Funeralwise, www.funeralwise.com/customs/hindu/.
“Buddhist Funeral Customs and Funeral Service Rituals.” Funeralwise, Funeralwise, www.funeralwise.com/customs/buddhist/.
“Hindu Funeral Traditions.” Everplans, Everplans, www.everplans.com/articles/hindu-funeral- traditions.
“Buddhist Funeral Traditions.” Everplans, Everplans, www.everplans.com/articles/buddhist- funeral-traditions.
...