By Modlich Monument Company

When we lose a loved one, religious traditions honor those lost and bring us peace. You might know how your faith honors loved ones, but other faiths may be different. Here is a list of a variety of different faiths and the unique traditions they have to honor those that have passed.

Christians:

Loved ones usually send flowers, cards, or bring food to help a grieving family. Those who passed are typically dressed in something nice or their favorite clothing.

Catholicism:

Catholics mark death in three stages: the wake, the funeral mass, and the committal. It is tradition for mourners to wear dark clothing.

Judaism:

Traditional Jewish funerals are typically very simple and brief. The loved one is washed thoroughly and is buried wearing a simple outfit, called a tachrichim. The body of the deceased must be buried within three days.Mourners grieve during a period of sit shiva.

Hinduism:

Typically, Hindus believe their dead should be cremated. But, prior to that the loved one will remain in their family’s home. Those attending the funeral ceremony will wear white clothing.

Islam:

In the Islamic faith, funerals are expected to occur as quickly after death as possible—meaning no viewing, wake, or visitation. The faith prohibits cremation. Some Muslim communities allow women and children to attend, but typically it is just men.

Buddhism:

Buddhists believe in samsara, or the cycle of life; Buddhist funerals help loved ones progress into future lives. At the ceremonies, attendees share memories of the loved ones and their good deeds. The ceremony typically involves chanting, prayers, and offerings to help the soul of the deceased achieve rebirth or enlightenment. It is Buddhist tradition to leave a loved one’s body untouched for four hours so the soul can leave.

Religious burial customs are an important ways to honor the deceased and help friends and family find comfort through their faith and cultural identity.

Presented by Modlich Monument. Family owned since 1936. Learn more at: Modlich-monument.com, (614) 276-1439.