The Role of Chanting: Buddhist Funeral in Singapore

The Purpose of Chanting in Buddhist Funerals

Buddhist funeral practices place great emphasis on chanting, as it is seen as a guiding force for the soul’s journey after death. Central to this tradition is the belief that mantras and sutras serve to direct the departed toward a positive rebirth. For instance, in Tibetan Buddhism, the concept of bardo describes an intermediate state the soul may inhabit for up to 49 days. During this transitional phase, chanting is believed to provide clarity and prevent the soul from losing its way.

Beyond guiding the soul, chanting also creates an atmosphere of calm and introspection for both the living and the deceased. The sacred verses, such as those from the Amitabha Sutra, are chanted by monks and mourners alike to invoke the blessings of Amitabha Buddha. This is thought to aid the soul in reaching the Pure Land—a serene realm free from suffering.

In Singapore, Mahayana Buddhists often integrate these practices into their funeral rites, reflecting the community’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions. By fostering peace and aiding the soul’s spiritual transition, chanting remains a vital aspect of Buddhist funerals across the region.

Types of Chants Used in Buddhist Funerals

The chants performed during Buddhist funerals may differ according to tradition and intent, yet they all share a unifying purpose: to bring solace to the departed and comfort to the grieving family. Below are some examples of the sacred chants often recited during Buddhist funeral rites.

Heart Sutra

The Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitā Hṛdaya Sūtra) is one of the most revered texts in Mahayana Buddhism. Despite its brevity, it encapsulates profound teachings on emptiness (śūnyatā), which is a core concept in Buddhist philosophy. The sutra teaches that all phenomena are devoid of inherent existence, challenging adherents to transcend dualistic thinking and recognise the interdependent nature of reality.

In Buddhist funeral contexts, the recitation of the Heart Sutra serves multiple purposes:

• It reminds mourners and participants of the impermanence of life and the illusory nature of suffering.
• It guides the deceased toward enlightenment by fostering a deeper understanding of non-attachment.
• The chanting is also believed to purify negative karma, benefiting both the departed and the living.

Namo Amituofo

“Namo Amituofo” is the Chinese transliteration of the Sanskrit phrase “Namo Amitābhāya”, which translates to “Homage to Amitabha Buddha.” This phrase is central to Pure Land Buddhism, where followers seek rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land (Sukhāvatī), a realm free from suffering and ideal for pursuing enlightenment.

In funeral rites, repeating “Namo Amituofo” acts as a mantra that:

• Invokes Amitabha Buddha’s compassion and blessings for the deceased.
• Helps focus the mind on faith and devotion, fostering inner peace among mourners.
• Ensures that the deceased is guided toward the Pure Land, where they can continue their spiritual journey in an optimal environment.

Mantra for Rebirth in the Pure Land

The Mantra for Rebirth in the Pure Land, also known as the Dharani of Amitabha Buddha, is a sacred chant dedicated to aiding the deceased in attaining rebirth in the Pure Land. This mantra, often recited repeatedly during funeral ceremonies, reflects the deep compassion and vows of Amitabha Buddha.

Its role in the funeral service includes:

• Cleansing obstacles in the deceased’s karmic path, facilitating a smoother transition to the Pure Land.
• Strengthening the connection between the deceased and Amitabha Buddha.
• Offering solace and hope to the bereaved by affirming the possibility of a better rebirth.

Praise to Amitabha Buddha

This hymn or chant extols the virtues and boundless compassion of Amitabha Buddha. It highlights his 48 vows, particularly his promise to establish the Pure Land as a sanctuary for those who place their faith in him.

During a Buddhist funeral, the “Praise to Amitabha Buddha” serves the following purposes:

• It honours the Buddha’s immeasurable compassion and wisdom.
• The collective chanting fosters a serene atmosphere, uplifting the spirits of the mourners.
• It strengthens the participants’ faith in Amitabha Buddha and the Pure Land, inspiring a shared sense of spiritual purpose.

Transfer of Merit Verse

The Transfer of Merit Verse is a pivotal part of Buddhist rituals, symbolising the altruistic act of dedicating any positive energy or merit generated from the ceremony to the deceased. Merit transfer is based on the belief that virtuous actions can benefit others, even after their death.

Key aspects of the Transfer of Merit Verse in funerals include:

• Assisting the deceased in purifying their karma and achieving a favourable rebirth.
• Expressing the compassion of the participants by sharing the benefits of their prayers, chanting, and good deeds.
• Reinforcing the interconnectedness of all beings, emphasising the Buddhist values of generosity and selflessness.

Involvement of Mourners in Chanting Rituals

In Buddhist funerals, chanting is not solely the domain of monks or spiritual leaders—it invites active involvement from the family and mourners. Particularly in Singapore, where funeral rites often combine both traditional and contemporary elements, chanting has evolved into a meaningful way for loved ones to express their grief while also fostering a sense of unity and support.

For those who are mourning, chanting offers a meditative space that shifts their focus from personal sorrow to the well-being of the deceased. It provides comfort and facilitates a sense of closure, establishing a spiritual connection between the living and the departed. In some communities, it is believed that when family and friends chant together, the positive energy generated is amplified, offering additional guidance and support for the deceased’s journey in the afterlife.

Alongside chanting, families typically present offerings of incense, food, and flowers during the funeral service. These offerings are made both to honour the deceased and to show respect to the monks, reinforcing key Buddhist values such as compassion, generosity, and reverence.

Cultural Significance in Singapore

Thai, Sri Lankan, and Tibetan traditions. Despite the varied backgrounds, all these groups hold chanting as a fundamental part of their funeral ceremonies. Among the Chinese Mahayana Buddhists, the largest group in Singapore, a blend of traditional Chinese and Buddhist funeral customs is often followed, with chanting playing a crucial role in guiding the spirit of the deceased.

Additionally, in some Buddhist funerals, especially those influenced by Taoism, the chanting includes not only Buddhist sutras but also Taoist rituals. These practices are intended to honour ancestors and offer protection to the family. This unique fusion highlights Singapore’s rich cultural landscape, where religious and cultural practices often intertwine to reflect both personal beliefs and communal values.

On the other hand, Theravada Buddhists, particularly from the Thai and Sri Lankan communities, may emphasise simplicity in their rituals, with monks leading the chanting of Pali scriptures. These recitations focus on transferring merit to the deceased, supporting their journey into the next life.

Though funeral practices may vary across these traditions, chanting remains a common and unifying element in all Buddhist funerals in Singapore. It serves not only as a religious ritual but also as a means of preserving the cultural heritage of the different Buddhist communities.

Conclusion

Chanting plays a pivotal role in Buddhist funeral rites, serving not only as a spiritual guide for the deceased but also providing comfort and solace to the mourners. Regardless of the tradition—whether Tibetan, Thai, Sri Lankan, or Chinese Mahayana—chanting rituals are a powerful means of honouring the departed and ensuring their safe passage toward rebirth.

In Singapore, the integration of various Buddhist and Taoist influences enriches the funeral experience, demonstrating the unique cultural fusion present in the region. Ultimately, the act of chanting, alongside offerings and the transfer of merit, fosters a sense of peace and spiritual connection, helping both the living and the deceased navigate the journey of life, death, and beyond. 

By preserving these sacred practices, Buddhist funeral rites continue to offer solace, guide the departed, and strengthen the communal bonds of faith. If you require any assistance, do feel free to contact us at A.LifeGrad Funeral, and we will be happy to assist.