Just recently saw a documentary on The Tibetan Book of the Dead?

Question

I thought that the way they treated the deceased was beautiful. There was particiaption by all of the community and so much respect. I was wondering what Buddahist Funeral Cereomonies were like here in the States? Anybody know?

Answer 1

There is no "set" format for a Buddhist burial. It depends upon the Buddhist tradition. What was seen in the documentary "The Tibetan Book of the Dead" (also in the movie "Kundun") is known as a sky burial. The body is allowed to be consumed by animals, typically vultures, to return the body to benefit those animals -- a kind of "return to Nature" if you will; obviously not permitted in Western cultures.

Buddhists do not consider death to be a sad time since rebirth is the fate of us all until we become a buddha and end the rebirth cycle. "The Tibetan Book of the Dead" is meant to assist the living and the soon to die to realize the path of the bardo (the interim between death and rebirth). Reading this text is considered beneficial in the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism to prepare the living for the inevitable.

In the West it is typically a matter of personal choice whether the body is cremated or buried (ground or mausoleum). Without getting too involved in the actual ceremony, a Buddhist funeral should be simple, solemn and dignified. The family is cautioned not to be extravagant in selecting a casket for the body.

The body typically would be dressed modestly without the family obtaining special clothing. Jewelry and other adornments are typically discouraged.

In Tibetan traditions a mantra called "The Wish-Granting Wheel Mantra" is pinned onto the body in the belief it will purify the deceased and prevent his/her rebirth in a lower realm.

In front of the casket, an altar with an image of the Buddha is prominently placed. Assuming there is a closed casket, a photo of the deceased may be placed upon the altar as well. Additionally, offerings of flowers, fruit and incense are placed on the altar.

Friends of the family may offer modest bouquets. wreaths, etc. which should be displayed without detracting from the altar. It would be considered more appropriate to make donations to charities and dedicate any merit to the deceased and others.

I hope you find this of some help.

Any errors contained herein are due to my own carelessness.

May all be at peace.

Answer 2

Hmmm, I saw that one, but I've known about the condor thing for a while now.

It was a pretty good show, but I'm not completely sure if they have everything 100% accurate. (in the mind of the viewer)

Answer 3

I saw that documentary too.. it was pretty cool. I don't believe any of that stuff but it was pretty cool anyway. I don't know what the funerals are like here.

Answer 4

Depends on the person and where they're at and what they want.

_()_

Answer 5

They burn you alive to protest violence.
Stay serene or they do it over.

http://www.francesfarmersrevenge.com/stuff/archive/oldnews2/immolation2.jpg
Note worshipper to the right.

Answer 6

Idk, but dead bodies are kinda gorss dude.