Death And Mourning Rituals- Page 37 Flashcards
Why do Buddhists focus on death?
Because it is an example of Anicca (impermanence) so can be used as a learning tool
What do Buddhists use to aid their Meditation when they are reflecting on death?
A skull
Give the order of events for a Theravada burial
Sutras recited to the dead
Coffin is surrounded by candles, incense, and wreaths
Monks chant from scripture
Cremated using incense and fragrant wood
Why do monks chant scripture during Theravada burials?
To transfer merit and good Karma to the deceased in order to aid rebirth
Why is the coffin surrounded by candles, incense and wreaths during Theravada burials?
As a tribute to the dead and to remind people of the three marks of existence
How long does a Theravada burial last?
1 day
Give the order of events for a Japanese burial
Procession places coffin in front of items
Mourners give money
Priests recite Sutras
Body is burned whilst a family meal takes place
Ashes are placed into a box using special chopsticks
What is significant about placing the body in front of items instead of items in front of the body during a Japanese burial?
It is more about the deceased paying tribute to the three marks of existence than the deceased being honoured by gifts
Why do priests recite Sutras during Japanese burials?
To remind everyone of the Buddha’s teachings and impermanence
What are the chopsticks made out of in Japanese burials?
One willow and one bamboo
What do the chopsticks represent in Japanese burial?
The bridge between this world and the next
How long does Japanese burials last?
Several days
Give the order of events for Tibetan burials
Book of the dead is read to the deceased Bardo last 49 days Sky burial (body dismembered and fed to the vultures)
What is the importance of being fed to the vultures during Tibetan burials?
One final act of Dana (giving)
