Death may be painful to think about, but it’s inevitable. Sooner or later, we all have to say goodbye to our loved ones. The most human way to bid our farewells is through our funeral rites. Funerals are an ancient tradition that our ancestors have been practising for thousands of years. It just goes to show how much our loved ones have affected us.
Though funerals are traditions that nearly all of humanity shares, we all have different ways of honouring our dead. For example, in some cultures, only burials are permitted, while in others, it’s more normal to proceed with cremation. Many are familiar with dark outfits worn at events, while in some cultures, it is permissible to wear other, more vibrant colours. Some cultures have funeral rites that emphasise the celebration of one’s life, while other funerals are quieter and sombre affairs. Funerals are deeply rooted in the beliefs of the deceased one or their family’s.
Funerals in the country
Singapore is a melting pot of many different religious groups-- it is hard to predict what the average funeral in Singapore might look like.
The majority of Singaporeans are Buddhist-- making up a total of around 42%. The second, third, and fourth most populous groups are Muslims, nonaffiliated (or nonreligious) people, and Christians respectively, filling a total of 14% each, while the fifth most populous are the Taoists.
How to behave properly at any funeral
Even with this diversity, however, there are still universal funeral etiquette tips that can apply across these various religious groups. Since funerals are held in memory of a passed loved one, it is best to be respectful to the attendees and the host family. Here are three tips for attending any type of funeral service:
1. Arriving at a funeral promptly.
It is good manners to arrive at least ten to twenty minutes before the actual funeral rites start. This is to allow time for greeting the fellow attendees of the funeral and the bereaved family.
2. Greet people when you arrive.
Talking is not forbidden, but if you must hold a conversation, speak in soft tones. It is generally good manners to greet and say hello to fellow attendees. You do not have to hold a conversation with everyone who attends, so don’t feel too awkward.
3. Find an appropriate place to sit.
If you’re part of the immediate family, you might have a seat nearer to the front. But if not, it might be more prudent to sit near the back or the middle, as the first few rows are dedicated to people close to the deceased.
Contact Eternal Life for more information about our affordable funeral services in Singapore. We provide funeral services for Buddhists, Catholics, Christians, and various other religious groups.
