Buddhist

Death in the Buddhist faith is approached quite differently to many other religions. A Buddhist funeral and funeral customs are considered within the concept of ‘samsara’, the process by which one is reincarnated and reborn, and their actions through their lives play an important role in this. The state of a person’s mind at the time of death and the karmic merit they have earned will determine the type of rebirth they will experience (McCormick 2011)

Before the funeral 

• Close family and friends will surround the person and help them achieve a state of peace and relaxation. This is important, as samsara preaches you should reflect on the good deeds during your life and how they will impact the future life upon reincarnation
• Buddhist chants may be carried out by those gathered and a small Buddha statue may be present
• Upon passing, the body is left completely untouched for some time, after which it may be washed and dressed in regular, simple clothing in preparation for the burial
• Cremation is widely accepted in the Buddhist faith, although attitudes to the embalming of the body vary. Monks may well accompany the cremation service and lead chants

During the service 

• Given the internal diversity in Buddhism religion, the funeral service will differ depending on the person and their personal beliefs. 
• Unreal services will often be simple and modest in nature, and this will be reflected in the clothing worn by attendees. White and pure clothes are a common sight at a Buddhist service, monks (if attending) will be in their traditional orange robes
• A sense of tranquillity and peace is to be established within the location of the funeral
• Upon entering, make your way to the altar, bow slightly with your hands pressed together and spend a moment reflecting before taking a seat
• Traditional songs and prayers will be lead. If you don’t know them, simply maintain a respectful silence. Stand whenever the monks do and avoid sitting in a position above their height
• Eulogies and prayers may be delivered by the monks, the family or both

Following the service 

•  Should the decision be made to inter the body instead of cremating it, monks or family members will lead chanting beside the grave spot before the casket is lowered in line with Buddhist burial practices
•  In Chinese Buddhist funeral traditions, a mourning period of 49 days is observed, with a prayer ceremony every seven days