BUDDHIST FUNERAL PACKAGE
(HDB VOID DECK)

For Buddhists, karma has implications beyond life on earth. It has its consequences on reincarnation and can even determine the status of a deceased in his next life. In Buddhism, death simply means a new round of rebirth. Buddhists consider death as the transition from this life to the next, bringing the deceased’s soul to the state of absolute bliss. Moreover, it is an event of major religious significance for the bereaved families. 

In accordance to Buddhist beliefs, the body is first bathed and clothed to prepare it for the funeral. Alongside giving the deceased a meaningful send-off, a Buddhist funeral also serves as a way to help the departed move on smoothly in his afterlife. 

A Buddhist funeral should be a simple, dignified and solemn expression of bereavement. In most cases, Buddhist funerals are held in a funeral home, not in a temple. The viewing often takes place one night before the funeral, which typically involves candlelights and incense. During visitation, the bereaved family sits in front of the funeral room and greets the visitors who have come to show their support. Visitors then offer their condolences to the family, bow in front of the casket to give honour and respect to the deceased. People may opt to stay for a while or leave, depending on their personal preference. Most often, visitors make a financial donation to the family of the deceased.

Conducted by a monk, the Buddhist funeral service is usually held the following day to adhere to the Buddhist funeral traditions. In most cases, Buddhists prefer to have an open casket, allowing the attendees to bid goodbye. There may also be a period of meditation during the ceremony, a traditional Buddhist custom to help the attendees reflect on the deceased’s life and honour their memory. 

Once the ceremonies are completed, the casket is taken to a burial ground, typically o9n a hillside. After the casket has been buried, the family pays their respect by turning away from the grave. Depending on the family’s belief, Buddhists may also choose cremation. To adhere to the traditional funeral custom, the family may witness the cremation process.