Death is a part of life, and funerals are an important way to honor the life of a loved one. For those living in Singapore, Chinese funeral customs are important to understand and observe. Here, we will outline the traditional practices for funerals so that families can pay their respects with the utmost respect and dignity.
In Singapore, Chinese funerals typically take place three days after the death of a loved one. During this time, friends and family gather to mourn the loss and pay their respects, as well as honor the deceased with offerings such as food, incense and flowers. There are strict traditions that must be followed, including wearing only white clothing to avoid the colour red.
The Procession
Funerals in Singapore follow traditional Chinese customs, which start with a procession from the home of the deceased to the funeral parlor or temple. The procession is usually led by a music band playing somber tunes while family members carry incense sticks and banners bearing messages of sorrow. In addition, flowers and offerings may be brought along as well. The duration of the procession can vary depending on how far away it is from the home to the funeral parlor or temple.
The Wake
At the wake, friends and family come together to pay their last respects. During this time, there may be singing of Buddhist sutras or sharing stories about the deceased person’s life. There will also be food served for visitors during this period as a way to show hospitality towards them in lieu of their attendance at such a difficult time. After everyone has paid their respects, friends and family typically make donations to charities or organizations dedicated to helping others in memory of the deceased person’s wishes before they passed away.
The Burial
After all formalities have been observed at the wake, it is time for burial preparations. Family members should wear white clothing as a sign of mourning since white is associated with death according to Chinese tradition. During this time, you should also make sure that all necessary paperwork is ready for burial purposes such as permits and other forms that need filing out before proceeding with burial arrangements. Once everything is ready, relatives will proceed with cremation or interment if applicable before returning home after observing this solemn rite of passage for their departed loved one.
Funerals are an emotional process during which families must observe certain rituals that honor both culture and tradition. Customs surrounding funerals vary widely across cultures but understanding them helps us pay our respect for someone we’ve lost with dignity and grace. This article by Harmony Funeral Care offers an overview into Chinese funeral customs in Singapore so that families can ensure they are paying their respects properly when faced with this difficult situation in life’s journey ahead. It is important to remember that funerals are ultimately about celebrating life rather than mourning death itself—a sentiment that remains true regardless of where you choose to celebrate it!
