6 Traditional Practices in a Buddhist Funeral

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6 Traditional Practices in a Buddhist Funeral
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Cremation   Although burial is accepted in
Buddhism, most Buddhists would still prefer
cremation. This is because Buddha himself was
also cremated. Cremation is usually done after
the third day that the person has passed
away.   Viewing   During the first three days of
the wake, families and friends can still take a
last look of the deceaseds body. It is advisable
for the family of the deceased to dress the body
with simple white clothes for the
viewing.   Hymns   Just like any other religion,
Buddhists funerals also include songs and funeral
hymns to make the funeral wake more solemn and
sincere. The hymns are usually chanted by a
Buddhist Monk to recite the liturgies in
Buddhism.   Eulogies   Families and friends are
asked to perform a sermon or recite a eulogy to
commemorate the life of the deceased. This is the
same as other religions in which families and
friends are sharing their memorable experiences
that they had when the deceased was still alive.
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Flowers   It is customary for most Buddhist
funeral services to provide funeral flowers like
white Chrysanthemums to be displayed on the
altar. Friends and relatives of the deceased can
also give flowers to the family of the deceased
as long as the flowers are not red.   Altar   Fami
lies usually get a Buddhist funeral package from
funeral homes in Singapore which includes the
setting up of altars. They will prepare an image
of Buddha, white flowers, incense, and food
offerings like fruits and candies that will be
displayed or decorated on the altar.   Monks   Typ
ically, the family of the deceased will choose a
Singapore funeral parlour which can provide a
Monk that would lead the rituals and prayers
during the funeral wake. Having a Buddhist Monk
can help make a funeral more organised.