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Funerals are significant customs that commemorate the loss of a loved one and provide an opportunity for friends and family to offer condolences. Each culture has its own unique customs and rituals to honour and mourn the departed soul. Chinese funerals, with their complex and detailed nature, encompass a variety of practices and customs that have been followed for generations.

Chinese funerals have a long history and are firmly rooted in cultural norms and traditional values influenced by Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. While specific rituals may vary depending on the geographical area and the family’s religious beliefs, there are several common features found in the majority of Chinese funerals.

In Chinese culture, funerals are seen as a way to show respect for the departed and ensure their peaceful transition into the afterlife. These rituals hold great importance in ensuring the well-being of the deceased in their journey beyond life. The steps involved in a Chinese funeral are multifaceted and encompass various aspects of honouring the departed and supporting their spiritual journey.

This article will explore the intricate steps and traditions, with a particular focus on the customs followed in Chinese funerals in Singapore.

Chinese Funeral Customs and Traditions:

a) Ancestor Worship: Ancestor worship holds great importance in Chinese culture, where it is believed that the departed souls continue to influence the lives of their descendants. To honor and appease the departed, practices such as prayers, burning incense, and making offerings are conducted as part of ancestor worship.

b) Filial Piety: The concept of filial piety is deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, emphasizing the respect and care shown towards parents and ancestors. Children are expected to fulfill their duties towards their deceased parents, which includes organizing appropriate burial ceremonies and ensuring their well-being in the afterlife.

c) Feng Shui: Chinese funeral customs heavily incorporate the principles of feng shui, which involve arranging the environment in a harmonious and orderly manner. It is believed that the final resting place of the deceased should have a positive energy flow and be in alignment with natural surroundings, reflecting the influence of feng shui practices.

Pre-Funeral Preparations:

Before the funeral takes place, there are several customary preparations that are typically carried out by the deceased’s family, close relatives, and friends. Here are some common pre-funeral preparations:

a) Notification of Passing: The family shares the news of their loved one’s passing with relatives, friends, and the wider community. They communicate essential details regarding the funeral arrangements, such as the location and schedule of the wake or funeral service, enabling people to pay their respects and participate in the funeral proceedings.

b) Funeral Committee: A committee is formed to oversee the various aspects of the funeral arrangements. Typically comprised of family members and close friends, this committee takes on specific duties and responsibilities to ensure the smooth execution of the funeral proceedings.

c) Chinese Funeral Wake: A funeral wake, in Chinese tradition, takes place either near the deceased’s home or a funeral parlour. It spans a period of about three to seven days, during which family and friends gather to offer condolences, pay their respects to the departed, and provide support to the grieving family. The wake serves as a communal gathering where mourners can share their memories and support one another in the grieving process.

The Day of the Funeral:

The choice of a Taoist, Buddhist, or Confucian priest to officiate the funeral service depends on the religious preferences of the family.

• Formation of funeral procession, typically accompanied by a hearse or a car carrying the casket.
• Relatives and friends follow behind the hearse, walking in procession.
• Mourners may carry funeral banners and burn incense as a symbolic gesture.
• Mourners dress in white or black attire, representing mourning and paying respects to the deceased.

a) Chanting and Prayers: Chanting and prayers are performed during the funeral to guide the soul of the departed and seek blessings for their peaceful journey in the afterlife.

b) Ritual Offerings: The funeral ritual involves making various offerings to the deceased. These offerings can include paper money, food, and objects symbolizing prosperity and joy in the afterlife.

c) Burial or Cremation: Chinese funeral customs allow for both burial and cremation, with the choice depending on cultural and religious beliefs.

Post-Funeral Rituals:

a) Mourning Period: In Chinese tradition, it is customary to observe a mourning period of approximately 100 days. This period signifies the time it may take for the soul of the departed to be reborn. During this period, family members often wear mourning attire, abstain from attending joyous events, and refrain from engaging in celebratory activities. As a mark of respect for the deceased, close family members may also choose to shave their heads.

b) Ancestral Worship: Following the funeral, the family continues to engage in customary ancestor worship practices. These rituals aim to honor the departed and maintain a connection with their soul. It involves reciting prayers, lighting incense, and making offerings at the ancestral altar.

c) Tomb Sweeping Day: On Tomb Sweeping Day, also known as Qing Ming Festival, family members visit the graves of their ancestors to pay respects. During this time, they clean the tomb area, leave offerings, and perform rituals. It is a way to honor and remember the deceased. Symbolically, the deceased’s comb is often split in two, representing their passing.

d) Giving of Red Envelopes: After the funeral, it is customary for visitors to receive red envelopes from the deceased’s relatives. These envelopes contain money and are considered as lucky charms or tokens of goodwill.

e) Yearly Remembrance: The Qing Ming Festival is a traditional Chinese festival usually taking place in early April. It is a time when people pay homage to their ancestors by cleaning their gravesites. Families may also offer food, burn incense, and engage in prayers to honor and remember their departed loved ones.

Chinese Funeral Customs in Singapore:

Over time, Chinese funeral traditions in Singapore have evolved due to the diverse ethnic Chinese population residing in the country. While certain customs have remained unchanged, others have been adapted to align with the local culture.

Chinese funerals often encompass a combination of Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian rituals, representing the multicultural and multi-religious composition of the population. This blending of traditions acknowledges and respects the diverse beliefs and practices present within the Chinese community in Singapore.

Conclusion:

Chinese funeral customs hold deep roots in tradition, reflecting the significance of family, ancestor reverence, and cultural beliefs. They serve as a means for families to pay homage to and remember their departed loved ones.

Chinese funerals encompass a range of ceremonies and practices aimed at honoring the deceased and facilitating a peaceful transition to the afterlife. Appreciating these traditions allows for a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage and offers support to those exper

iencing grief. Despite variations in execution across different regions and groups, the core customs and rituals remain consistent.

Chinese funeral traditions have adapted over time to accommodate the nation’s multicultural environment and practical considerations. To attend a Chinese funeral in Singapore or gain insight into this vibrant cultural legacy, it is essential to acknowledge and respect these rituals.

Taoist burial rites are characterized by their intricate customs and rituals, serving as a means to show reverence and pay respects to the deceased. These rituals hold the purpose of glorifying the departed, guiding their souls, and providing solace to the grieving family.

In the Chinese philosophy of Taoism, there exist beliefs regarding the existence of an afterlife and the journey of the soul. These concepts shape the practices associated with Taoist funeral services. In Singapore, where Taoism has a notable following, these services are conducted with meticulous care and adhere to a well-defined procedure that spans several days.

As Singapore boasts a significant Taoist population, understanding the customs and traditions specific to Taoist funerals becomes essential. This article aims to delve into the timeline and procedures of a Taoist funeral in Singapore.

Taoist Views on Death and the Afterlife:

Taoism holds a distinct perspective on death, perceiving it as a natural transition and an integral part of the perpetual cycle of life. Central to Taoist beliefs are the concepts of yin and yang, the harmonization of opposing energies, and the pursuit of balance.

Within the realm of Taoism, death is considered a reunion with the Tao, the guiding principle of the universe. It is believed that an afterlife exists, where the soul journeys upon departing from the physical realm. Prior to reaching its ultimate destination, the soul is said to undergo a process of purification and transformation.

Taoist Funeral Rites:

Taoist funeral rites play a crucial role in facilitating the soul’s transition to the afterlife, ensuring a peaceful journey for the departed. The duration of a Taoist funeral can vary, influenced by factors like the age and social status of the deceased, as well as the family’s preferences. Typically spanning an odd number of days, such as 3, 5, or 7, these funerals encompass a range of rituals and ceremonies. This choice of odd numbers is rooted in Taoist beliefs, which associate them with auspiciousness.

Preparing the Departed:

• The preparation of the deceased’s body marks the start of the funeral procession after someone passes away.
• The body is meticulously cleaned and dressed by funeral directors or family members.
• The funeral begins with the setting up of the venue. The place is adorned with a portrait of the deceased, incense, and offerings.
• Family and friends gather to pay homage and console the grieving family.

Welcoming the Departed Soul:

• The second day of the funeral is referred to as the “Welcoming Day.”
• Taoist priests lead the proceedings, performing rituals that involve chanting sacred texts and invoking blessings for the departed.
• Offerings, such as cash, candles, and food, are made to support the deceased’s journey in the afterlife.

Commemorations and Ceremonies:

• Throughout the wake, individuals visit to offer condolences, prayers, and floral tributes.
• Taoist priests persist in reciting scriptures and conducting ceremonies to honour the deceased and seek blessings for their spiritual journey.
• Family and friends actively participate in these rituals, offering prayers and providing support to the grieving family.

The Final Farewell:

• The final farewell to the departed takes place on the last day, signalling the end of the funeral.
• Mourners gather to accompany the casket or urn in a procession to the grave or crematory.
• Taoist priests lead the procession, conducting prayers and ceremonies along the way.
• Upon reaching the burial site or crematorium, additional rituals are performed to honour the soul of the deceased.
• Family and friends bid their final goodbyes, expressing their last respects to the departed.

Significance of Taoist Funeral Rituals:

Guiding the Soul:

• Taoist rituals are conducted with the aim of facilitating the departed soul’s transition to the afterlife.
• The recitation of scriptures and prayers is believed to offer enlightenment and blessings to the deceased.

Offering Respects and Condolences:

• Taoist funeral rites offer an opportunity for loved ones to pay tribute to the departed, offer prayers, and provide solace to the grieving family.
• These rituals play a significant role in fostering a sense of community and solidarity during the mourning period.

Providing Solace:

• The rites and rituals conducted in a Taoist funeral aim to bring comfort and solace to the grieving family.
• The presence of loved ones and the collective act of honoring the deceased through these ceremonies can contribute to the process of healing and finding solace.

Funeral Service in Singapore:

Funeral service providers play a crucial role in assisting the grieving family in making appropriate preparations and ensuring that the funeral rites and traditions align with Taoist customs. They take charge of logistics, such as transportation, setting up the funeral venue, and providing the necessary funeral goods. Working in close collaboration with Taoist priests, they coordinate the organization of religious rites and ceremonies.

In addition to logistical support, funeral service providers offer valuable advice and assistance to the bereaved family during this challenging period. They understand the sensitivities and emotions involved in the funeral process and provide guidance to help navigate through the various customs and procedures.

It’s important to note that Taoist funeral rites may incorporate elements from diverse cultures and religions. Singapore, known for its multi-ethnic society, values its cultural diversity, and as a result, Taoist funerals may incorporate practices or traditions that reflect this multicultural environment.

Conclusion:

Taoist funeral rites are deeply rooted in Taoist ideas and customs, serving as a framework for commemorating the deceased and providing solace to the grieving family. Typically lasting from 3 to 7 days, Taoist funerals encompass a series of rites and ceremonies.

These rituals serve the purpose of facilitating a peaceful transition for the departed spirit while offering comfort to the relatives and friends of the deceased. By familiarizing ourselves with the rituals and traditions associated with Taoist funerals, we can gain a deeper understanding of their cultural significance and better support individuals navigating the grieving process.

With the onset of COVID-19, we are adapting constantly to battle the spread of the virus while staying afloat in these difficult times. NEA has released and updated their guidelines and limitations for funerals, crematoria and columbaria in Singapore according to the severity of the spread. As these rules are updated frequently, it might be difficult for the public to stay afloat on all funerary requirements during this time. This page will act as a guide for COVID-19 era funerals and our respective recommendations for funerals.

Our Commitment to a Graceful Funeral

A funeral can still be graceful even with a reduced attendance, and we are here to help families in their grief during this uncertain times. There might be various funeral-related questions in your mind that remain unanswered in this article. Call our funeral director so we may advise you in arranging your specific needs while still staying within the boundaries set out by the Circuit Breaker.

Funeral Wakes

Current Regulations in Place

Funeral wakes are still allowed to be held, be it at void decks or funeral parlours. The number of people allowed to be at the venue has to be capped to a maximum of 10 people. The headcount includes family members, relatives and guests, but excludes funeral staff(undertakers and pallbearers) and rites executors(pastors, monks etc.).

What It Means

This is a best-of-both-worlds solution. While Singaporeans are still allowed to grief in the way they are accustomed to, there is a limit to the number of guests they may receive during this period. This limit is meant to reduce the crowding that a typical funeral wake has, and also to ensure that social distancing is observed as some void deck spaces are smaller. We appreciate the measured responses by NEA to allow that which is important to continue, albeit with restrictions, instead of a drastic knee-jerk reaction.

Our Recommendations

The headcount limit means that if there are more than 10 family members(i.e a long lived elder with many descendants or a large family consisting of several siblings), a rotation schedule should be set in place to avoid overcrowding, and so that guest arrival may be staggered.

In line with this, we have also reduced the number of tables and chairs that will be available during the wake, from 10 tables and 100 chairs(all deployed) to 5 tables and 50 chairs (20 deployed, 4 chairs per table, with spares for miscellaneous). Guests are also encouraged to leave contact details on the condolence book provided so that contact tracing can be done should the need arise.

Cremation & Burial

Current Regulations in Place

Just like funeral wakes, there is a limit of 10 people(excluding funeral staff & rites executors) who are able to attend the cremation rites at the respective private or public crematoria. This also applies to burials at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery.

What It Means

Staff at the respective sites will be conducting checks at the entry points of these facilities. Attendees beyond the 10 person cap will be refused entry. Following the extension of the Circuit Breaker, NEA has started to issue passes to attendees, and members without passes are refused entry into Mandai Crematorium or Choa Chu Kang Cemetery.

Our Recommendations

Should the family size exceed the headcount of 10 people, we suggest that only the children of the deceased and their respective spouses attend the cremation or burial rites(as well as the spouse of the deceased, if they wish to attend). We have livestream services available, and are able to arrange the service for those who would wish to watch the cremation rites remotely.

Columbaria & Cemetery

Current Regulations in Place

Collection of ashes, like the others, are limited to 10 people.

All NEA columbaria and cemetery are closed. Should your loved one be resting at a privately-owned columbarium, do give them a call to check on the measures they have implemented before heading down(to meet entry expectations and avoid making a wasted trip)

What It Means & Our Recommendations

Columbaria and cemeteries are large public spaces, and it is difficult to track each and every person that enters or exits. Whether or not there is a pressing need to visit the columbaria, we suggest not to visit until further updates by NEA that it is safe to do so, or till after June 1. Even after the circuit breaker has ended, do exercise caution especially during times when it may get crowded.