20 Surprising Practices You Didn’t Know About Buddhist And Taoist Funerals In Singapore

Buddhist and Taoist funerals services are steeped in rich traditions and customs, deeply influenced by cultural beliefs and superstitions. These practices are designed to honour the deceased, protect the living, and ensure harmony between the physical and spiritual realms. Whether through rituals, symbols, or respectful conduct, every aspect of a Chinese funeral carries profound significance. 

In this article, we delve into some of the key superstitions and etiquette observed during these solemn ceremonies, helping you better understand their meaning and importance in the grieving process.

Superstitions Surrounding Chinese Funerals in Singapore

Taoist and Buddhist funeral services are rich in traditions shaped by deep-rooted superstitions. These practices honour the deceased, protect the living, and maintain harmony between realms. Here, we explore some key superstitions and their significance.

1. Differing Rituals for Elders and Young People

In Chinese culture, funeral practices vary by age and status. Parents cannot arrange funerals for children, unmarried individuals are mourned at funeral homes, and no rites are held for children, as elders do not traditionally honour the young.

2. Avoiding Funerals During Festive Periods

If a death occurs near major celebrations like Chinese New Year, funerals are delayed, as they are seen as highly unlucky. Homes holding funerals are also avoided to prevent bad luck from spreading.

3. The Significance of Keeping the Casket Open

During the wake, the casket stays open to let the spirit move freely, ensuring its smooth passage without barriers.

4. Mirrors: A Portal for Unwanted Spirits?

Mirrors are covered or removed during the wake, as reflecting a coffin is believed to bring death to another family member.

5. Gambling During Wakes: A Tradition to ‘Guard’ the Deceased

Gambling is common in the courtyard during the wake, not for fun, but to keep watchers awake and distracted from grief, as it’s believed to help guard the corpse.

6. Sealing the Coffin: A Symbolic Final Goodbye

After the prayer ceremonies, mourners wail as the coffin is sealed, marking the final separation between the living and the dead. Yellow and white paper is placed on the coffin to ward off evil spirits. It’s customary for everyone to turn away during this, as watching the sealing is seen as unlucky.

7. The Soul’s Return on the Seventh Day: A Moment of Connection

On the seventh day after death, the deceased’s soul is believed to return home. Family members stay in their rooms to avoid seeing the spirit, while some sprinkle flour or talcum powder to detect its presence.

8. Safeguarding the Spirit’s Journey Back Home

A red plaque with an inscription may be placed outside the house to guide the soul back home, ensuring it doesn’t get lost.

9. The Meaning Behind Red Strings and Peanuts

Red strings and peanuts are given at the funeral to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. They must be disposed of before returning home to avoid bringing any misfortune back.

10. Loud Marching Bands: Sending the Spirit Off in Style

Chinese people believe that loud noises have the power to drive away evil spirits.

Etiquette to Observe at Chinese Funerals in Singapore

1. Dressing Respectfully: What to Wear and Avoid

Family members avoid wearing jewellery or red clothing at the wake, as red is linked to happiness and celebration.

2. Understanding the Mourning Period and Its Rules

Traditionally, family members, especially the elderly, refrain from cutting their hair for forty-nine days after a death as a sign of respect and mourning.

3. Maintaining a Solemn Demeanour

Making jokes or telling funny stories during a funeral is considered highly disrespectful. The atmosphere should remain solemn and reflective.

4. Giving Condolence Money (Bai Jin)

Guests are expected to bring ‘Bai Jin’ (condolence money) to show respect and help the family cover funeral expenses.

5. Setting the Coffin: An Emotional and Symbolic Process

The coffin is placed on a stand in the house or courtyard, with the deceased’s head facing inside. Family members arrange wreaths, gifts, and a portrait at the head, while food offerings are placed in front.

6. Family Roles and Their Positions During the Wake

Family members sit around the coffin in a strict order. The eldest son sits at the left shoulder, with the spouse on the right. Late-arriving relatives must crawl on their knees to the coffin as a sign of respect.

7. The Purpose and Symbolism of the Funeral Altar

An altar is placed at the foot of the coffin, with incense, white candles, and joss paper offerings. Guests are expected to light incense and bow in respect. A donation box is often provided to help with funeral expenses.

Read this article to learn how to set up a buddhist altar.

8. Mourning Colours and Their Cultural Significance

Family members wear different colours based on their relationship with the deceased. Children and daughters-in-law wear dark colours like black, grandchildren wear blue, and great-grandchildren wear light blue. Sons-in-law wear brighter colours like white, as they are considered outsiders to the immediate family.

9. Wailing as a Form of Respect: Why It Matters

Daughters-in-law and close blood relatives are expected to wail loudly to express their respect and grief. The louder the wailing, the greater the wealth left behind by the deceased.

10. Avoiding Vulgarities and Maintaining Decorum

As a final show of respect to the deceased and the mourning family, avoid using vulgarities when attending a funeral procession.

The Role of Funeral Directors in Preserving Buddhist & Taoist Funeral Traditions in Singapore

At A.LifeGrad Memorial Group Pte Ltd, we recognise the profound significance of Buddhist and Taoist funeral traditions and the comfort they bring to grieving families. With deep respect for these customs, we offer personalised services that honour your loved one’s spiritual journey. 

Our team takes care of every detail, from guiding you through ancient rites to setting up prayer altars and making offerings, ensuring that each ritual is performed with the utmost reverence. What sets us apart is our ability to blend cultural authenticity with compassionate support, providing peace of mind in your time of need. 

At A.LifeGrad Memorial Group Pte Ltd, we are more than just a funeral service, we are a source of comfort and tradition. For guidance, please contact us at enquiries@alifegrad.com or +65 9380 5592. We are here to support you with warmth and care.