2.2.20

Hindu Funerals

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Hindu Funerals

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The meaning of death

  • Hindus believe that death is not the end, but part of the samsara (cycle of life, death, and rebirth).
  • The Atman (soul) leaves the body at death and begins its journey toward rebirth or liberation.
  • Death is a natural and spiritual event, not something to fear.
  • The goal for every soul is to reach moksha (freedom from the cycle of rebirth) and become one with Brahman.
  • Funerals help the family honour the person’s life and pray for their peaceful journey onward.
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Funerals

  • Most Hindus are cremated, as fire is pure and helps release the soul from the body.
  • The body is washed, dressed in clean clothes, and placed with flowers.
  • Family members may place sacred ash, rice, or sandalwood on the body as blessings.
  • A Hindu priest (pandit) leads prayers and mantras to help guide the soul.
  • A close relative often lights the funeral pyre or the cremation fire.
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Prayers

  • During and after the cremation, families pray for the Atman to find peace and reach moksha.
  • These prayers help the soul move through its spiritual journey in a safe way.
  • Offerings of food and water honour the ancestors.
  • Showing love and respect for ancestors brings blessings and harmony.
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Ancestors

  • Hindus hold memorial services each year to remember loved ones who have passed away.
    • These acts of remembrance keep family bonds strong across generations.
  • Rituals show gratitude for the past and faith in the cycle of life. Families may pray in the sacred temples of the Ganges River.
  • Remembering the dead is a reminder of the eternal nature of the soul and the importance of living a good life.

Jump to other topics

1Year 7

1.1Origins of Abrahamic Faith

1.2Judaism

1.3Christianity

1.4Disciplinary Knowledge

2Year 8

2.1Islam

2.2Hindu Dharma (Hinduism)

2.3Buddhism

2.4Sikhi

2.5Atheism

2.6Philosophy of Religion

2.7Disciplinary Knowledge

3Year 9

3.1Life & Death

3.2Extremism

3.3Equality

4Additional Concepts

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