2006-09-19 15:01:34 · 3 answers · asked by bigchina@sbcglobal.net 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Other - Society & Culture
That is the way the caskets are designed. They open with the hinges at the back, hence the head to the left a the head end of the casket.
2006-09-19 15:09:16 · answer #1 · answered by Reagan 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
caskets are constructed same size (each end) with hinges at back thus the head of body to foot would be view left to right.
But that does not explain why coffins which are made wider at shoulder areas and narrow at foot with only lids for top (no hinges) still have body viewed with head to the left and feet right.
Coffins are still used in many countries.
It's a good question and must have something to do with religious beliefs since it was a custom started long before "caskets" made their appearance.
Only thing I can determine is that people believed the heart was on the left hand side of their body. So if you placed dead person with head to your left- your heart would be closest to the departed person (at the head) when you viewed body or leaned over body for final goodbyes. Your heart would be closer to the dead person head. Symbolic of Devotion or Love.
Want to know answer myself-you can be sure it's religious custom dating back at least a thousand year's before "caskets"
2006-09-19 22:42:34 · answer #2 · answered by cork 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Democrats. Republicans to the right. Independents straight up.
2006-09-19 22:05:05 · answer #3 · answered by Skeff 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋