Sikh Beliefs
Sikhs believe in transmigration (karma) of the soul and that death is a natural part of life. They believe human life is an opportunity to break the soul’s cycle of reincarnation and return it to Waheguru, the Sikh name for God. Sikh funerals are known as Antam Sanskaar, meaning ‘the last rite of passage’, with the focus of the ceremony being a celebration of the soul re-joining Waheguru.
Preparing
Friends and relations will be with the dying person and recite from the Sukhnami Sahib.
At the time of death
After passing away the deceased will be washed and dressed in clean clothes. If the deceased has fulfilled the Sikh baptismal ritual then the five symbols of Sikh membership will also be placed in the coffin.
Sikh funerals
Friends and family drive in a procession to the crematorium. Death is not seen as a sad occasion but as an act of God and so it is forbidden to cry. There may be an opportunity to view the deceased. Hymns are often sung and prayers and the poem Sohila recited.
Sikh burials and cremations
Cremation is the norm for most Sikhs and only small children and babies will be buried. A male family member will switch the cremation oven on. The ashes will be spread in running water and are traditionally sent to India.
After death
Afterwards the mourners will come to the temple for more hymns and readings as well as the distribution of parsad, a kind of bread/pudding, which is a symbol of God’s blessing. For days after the death, Guru Granth Sahib will be read or sung regularly in order to ease the sorrows of the family.
What to wear to a Sikh funeral
The Sikh colour of mourning is white, and Sikh funeral clothing should include head covering for both men and women. While white is the best option according to Sikh religion, subdued neutral colours such as black, navy and charcoal grey are also acceptable – particularly if the funeral is taking place in a western country.
Bright colours (especially red) and patterns are considered disrespectful and should be avoided. Sikh funeral clothing is also smart and modest, so avoid showing too much skin and wearing conspicuous jewellery.
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