Buddhist Funeral Services in Harrow

A Buddhist funeral ceremony can be quite diverse. It is typically held at a Buddhist monastery, though some families prefer to do it in their own home. Most practising Buddhists are part of a community who will be able to provide a teacher to lead the service, including Buddhist funeral readings that are appropriate for the tradition of the deceased (for example, Theravada, Tibetan or Zen).

During the service, monks and other members of the Buddhist community are invited to read sermons or eulogies. According to Buddhist funeral customs, chanting may be led by monks and guests can either join in or sit silently. At this time, mourners and monks may also sing Buddhist funeral prayers which are also known as sutras. These Buddhist funeral prayers are detailed canonical scriptures that often include repetition.

At a traditional Buddhist funeral, the family will wear white or cover their clothing with a traditional white cloth, along with a headband or armband. Mourners may also:

• Walk with sticks to symbolize that grief has left them the need for support
• Chant or sing appropriate sutras (prayers)
• Bring offerings of flowers and fruit
• Burn incense to sweeten the air
• Ring gongs or bells

All Buddhists believe that death is not the end, but only an end to the body they presently inhabit. The spirit still remains and will carry on in another realm.