In Buddhism, death is considered a natural part of life and not something to be feared. For Buddhists, death can be either the beginning of a new cycle of rebirth or the arrival of liberation, depending entirely on whether an individual can completely let go of worldly attachments. Consequently, Buddhism advocates for simple yet dignified funeral rites, emphasizing the significance of rituals and the merit transfer to the deceased.
Buddhist Views on Death
Buddhism teaches that death is merely the start of another cycle of rebirth. Only by overcoming delusions and ego can one achieve liberation from the cycle of life and death and attain Nirvana. For most people, however, overcoming the defilements and achieving enlightenment is challenging. Therefore, the Pure Land school of Buddhism emphasizes the importance of handling the moment of death with great care. It is believed that if a person, at the time of death, sincerely chants the name of Amitabha Buddha with faith and aspiration, they can rely on the Buddha’s vow power to transcend the three realms of existence, even if they have committed numerous bad deeds in their lifetime. This belief explains why modern Buddhists place significant importance on the practice of reciting Buddha’s name for the dying, known as “Nianfo.”
Key Components and Practices of Buddhist Funeral Rites
Reciting Buddha’s Name at the Moment of Death
Buddhism views life and death as the result of karmic conditions. Therefore, when a loved one is nearing death, it is important not to grieve or cry excessively. During the dying process, the consciousness is leaving the body, which can be a painful experience. The environment should be kept calm and quiet, without crying or pulling the dying person, so that they can pass away peacefully. The thoughts at the moment of death are crucial, and a mind focused on the Buddha can lead to rebirth in the Pure Land. Family members are encouraged to recite Buddha’s name sincerely for 8 to 12 hours after death, during which the consciousness has not yet completely departed from the body.
Placement of the Body
After a loved one passes away, family members should continue to recite Buddha’s name beside the body and leave it undisturbed for 8 to 12 hours. Once the body cools, it can be moved to a funeral home or placed in a home altar for embalming or storage. Since Buddhism does not endorse the concept of an underworld, there are no practices such as “burning soul boats,” “foot-end rice,” or “foot-end lights,” and no recitation of “foot-end scriptures.”
Erecting a Memorial Tablet
While Buddhism does not believe in the existence of “three souls and seven spirits” or the need to “summon souls,” it respects traditional Chinese funeral customs by setting up a memorial tablet or spirit banner for the deceased. However, there is no burning of spirit money or offering of morning and evening meals, only the offering of fresh flowers and vegetarian food.
The “Seven-Sevens” and Memorial Services
Buddhism teaches that the consciousness remains in the intermediate state (Bardo) for 49 days after death before rebirth. In traditional Chinese Buddhist funerals, performing the “Seven-Sevens” (rituals held every seven days for 49 days) and memorial services are significant for helping the deceased accumulate merit and dissipate negative karma. However, due to the increasing popularity of reciting Buddha’s name, many Buddhists now consider this practice to be sufficient, making it unnecessary to hold elaborate memorial services. Instead, families often recite scriptures morning and evening or invite monks to lead scripture recitation.
Coffin Placement and Burial
Though Buddhism considers the body as merely an “empty shell” after death, it still advocates for respectful treatment of the deceased. After the body is cleansed, dressed, and prepared, it is placed in a coffin. Unlike traditional customs, there are no requirements for multiple layers of burial clothes, nor are personal items like “burial clothes” or “mountain-crossing pants” placed in the coffin.
Funeral Procession and Farewell Ceremony
Buddhist funeral rites include a memorial service before the burial, similar to traditional funeral customs. Family members perform a memorial ceremony according to their relationship with the deceased, followed by friends and guests offering incense and paying their respects.
Cremation, Burial, and Placement of Ashes
The custom of cremation was introduced to China along with Buddhism and became widely accepted during the Song dynasty. While its popularity declined over time, cremation is now the most common practice in Taiwan, with nearly 90% of the population choosing it. After cremation, the ashes are stored in an urn and placed in a columbarium.
Memorial Rites for the Deceased
Buddhism teaches that rebirth occurs within 49 days after death, so there is no need for ongoing memorial services. However, in respect of traditional funeral customs and family sentiments, memorial and worship practices similar to traditional rites are often observed.
Commemorative Rituals: Hundred Days, Anniversary, and Three-Year Memorials
Buddhism views commemorative rituals such as the “Hundred Days,” “Anniversary,” and “Three-Year Memorial” as important dates marking the death of a loved one. These rituals typically include worship and scripture recitation, similar to traditional funeral customs.
Honoring the Ancestors
Buddhists observe traditional practices of visiting and paying respects at the graves of ancestors during occasions like the Qingming Festival and on death anniversaries, reflecting respect and remembrance for those who have passed.
Conclusion
Buddhist funeral rites emphasize simplicity and dignity, focusing on the importance of reciting Buddha’s name and transferring merit to the deceased. By understanding death as a natural transition, Buddhists seek to assist the deceased in achieving a better rebirth in the cycle of samsara while also expressing respect and remembrance through various rituals. These practices not only reflect Buddhist teachings but also embody wisdom and compassion in facing the realities of life and death.
