In Hinduism The Dead Body Is Disposed Of By Cremation

In Hinduism The Dead Body Is Disposed Of By Cremation – But why is cremation so important for the followers of Hinduism? Why wouldn’t they practice burial funerals as in other religions? The response is not so hard to find. But we have to analyze the Hindu traditions. More so the traditions linked to the funeral rites.

In Hinduism The Dead Body Is Disposed Of By Cremation

Antyesti and its importance in Hinduism

Antyesti translates as “The Last Sacrifice”. And it is the name of the Hindu funeral rites. Which are highly important in every Hindu’s life. Antyesti is often called Antima Sanskar, Antyakriya, Anvarohonyya or Vahni Sanskara.

Death is a part of everyone’s life on earth. And in Hinduism there are numerous traditions that must be respected. Even when a Hindu starts to approach death. Therefore, when a Hindu is getting closer to death, the family must call a priest. They gather around the ill. Before death occurs, the ill should be placed on a grass mat. And in his/her mouth should be poured some water from the Ganges river. The sacred river in Hinduism.

After death occurred, the family members will avoid touching the diseased. The only exceptions are washing the body, organ donation or embalming. If a body is touched too much, it is believed to become impure.

The whole funeral continues after the body is washed and dressed. The family might hold a wake for the diseased. Where the whole family gathers. They pray for their lost one. And they might sing hymns or mantras (see also What Is The Purpose Of Mantra During Meditation). Also, if the diseased is a man, the family will apply ash and sandalwood to his forehead. And women will have turmeric on their forehead. They also have a garland of flowers around their neck. And the family also places holy basil in the casket.

In Hinduism The Dead Body Is Disposed Of By Cremation

When the wake is over, the casket will be moved to the place of cremation. There is a very important rule in the cremation. The family never cremates babies, children and saints. But in all the other cases, the casket is carried to the cremation site. Where the family members build a pyre. And the then place the body on it. The Karta (the oldest male relative) will pour holy water on the pyre. Then sets fire to it. The whole family will sit around until the whole body is cremated.

There are some traditions even after the cremation. The family should go home. Then take a bath and change. After all that, they will gather for a meal in the family. Some might invite a priest. Which will also cleanse the house with incense.

In Hinduism The Dead Body Is Disposed Of By Cremation – The cremation represents the start of the mourning period. Which last for 13 days. The family members perform the rite of “preta-karma”. This rite allows the soul of the diseased to reincarnate. One year after the funeral, the family holds a memorial. Also called “sraddha”.