Sikh Funerals
Sikhs believe in transmigration of the soul. They see human life as an opportunity to break the cycle of transmigration (karma) and unite with Waheguru (the Sikh name for God).
A Sikh funeral is known as Antam Sanskaar where the focus is celebration of the soul and not loss and grief.
Following the death of a Sikh, funeral arrangements will be made immediately.
Prior to the funeral taking place, the Sikh person that has died will be bathed and dressed in clean clothing. It is a requirement of the Sikh faith, that the articles known as Kakaars (that the Sikh would have worn during their life as an initiated Sikh) are not removed and their hair isn't cut. The articles include;
- kesh - unshorn hair;
- kangha - a small wooden comb;
- kachha (or kachhehra) - shorts usually worn as an undergarment;
- karha - an iron bracelet; and
- kirpan - a sword of unspecified length.
The body may be surrounded by flowers. Open caskets are allowed during a Sikh funeral.
The format of Sikh funerals differs, with some people choosing a service before the cremation followed by a secondary service afterwards at the Gurdwara. Sikh funerals would include the recital of Ardas, which is a community prayer.
The Sikh faith does not have overt displays of grief and mourning, instead focusing on showing that the mourners are resigned to God's will rather than the pain and grief.
Cremation is preferred for Sikh funerals with the ashes being scattered or buried afterwards. It is common for Sikh's to scatter their ashes in a body of flowing water. It is prohibited to place monuments or stones to mark the site of the cremated ashes in the Sikh faith. On the first day of death, the devotional reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib, which is the Sikh holy scripture will be read out. There will be a continuous reading of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib, known as the Akhand Paatth, which takes place over 3 days in the home or at the Gurdwara.
It is encouraged that when attending a Sikh funeral, that subdued coloured clothing be worn rather than bright patterns. All Sikhs will cover their heads as a mark of respect and you may be expected to remove your shoes.
