Cultural Considerations
Different cultures and religions have differing beliefs and customs surrounding death and dying and what funeral or burial rituals are undertaken following death. Some believe that the soul of a person does not immediately leave a body after death, and certain rituals and rites must be performed to help them.
For some cultures, caring for the body of a loved one is done by the family as their final way to honour the person they have lost. In other communities, elders may support or guide families in caring for their dead. In European cultures it is common for funeral homes or undertakers to take the body into their care until the funeral service, whereas in others it is important that family members keep vigil over the deceased until they are buried or cremated.
Understanding the beliefs of cultures other than your own can help you feel more comfortable with being involved in farewells and supporting friends and family. Click on the links below to learn more.
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Did you know?
Approximately 70% of New Zealanders are cremated rather than buried, and cremation is an important rite in Hinduism and Buddhism. However, many religions including Judaism, Islam and the Catholic Church have a long standing tradition of burial. In Māori culture it is important to return the body to the land, and cement ancestral ties with the land.