Taoism and Buddhism are two of the most practised religions among the Chinese community in Singapore. Therefore, most Chinese funerals in Singapore adhere to the etiquette and customs of either faith, which share some similarities. As such, it is unsurprising to find non-practitioners mixing up the funeral rites involved in both memorials.
This issue is compounded further by the fact that specific funeral practices from both religions stem from folk Chinese beliefs. As a result, various aspects of a Buddhist funeral and a Taoist funeral can appear similar. However, in actuality, both funeral rituals differ vastly. Let us share the differences between both funeral processes.
Difference #1: Chanting and scriptures
When attending a Buddhist or Taoist funeral service, it is common to see a religious figure, usually a priest or monk, leading the funeral rites and chanting of the scriptures. While this may be a familiar sight for both memorials, the difference lies in the material and purpose of the priest’s chanting.
During a Taoist funeral, the scriptures recited by the Taoist priest are meant to pray for mercy on behalf of the departed. In contrast, the sutras chanted by Buddhist monks aid in removing bad karma from the deceased, enhancing their chances of being reincarnated into the higher levels of the religion’s six realms (of rebirth and existence).
Despite these differences, the intent of these prayers is to safeguard the departed from evil spirits and help them transition seamlessly into their next life.
Difference #2: View on reincarnation
Reincarnation is a fundamental aspect of Buddhism and Taoism. However, both faiths have a different perspective on the ideology. Buddhists believe death and rebirth continue perpetually until the individual breaks the cycle by attaining Nirvana (enlightenment). Meanwhile, what is being reborn is not necessarily a permanent state. Instead, it is an ever-changing ‘non-self’.
Conversely, Taoists believe in the immortality of the soul, with life viewed as a continuous and eternal process of Tao, or “the way”. Practitioners believe their spirit can migrate to another physical body or even live on after death. Eventually, this rebirth cycle will guide them to the attainment of Tao.
Difference #3: Expressing grief
Buddhism and Taoism view death as a natural part of the cycle of life. However, practitioners of both religions have different ways of expressing grief during the funeral. During a Taoist funeral, the bereaved family is encouraged to grieve as loudly and expressively as possible until the point the coffin is nailed shut to demonstrate their love for the departed. Meanwhile, mourners attending a Buddhist funeral service are usually more sombre and subdued.
While Buddhist and Taoist funerals may share some similarities – for example, the burning of joss papers and paper offerings, avoiding the colour red, and having the funeral service last for an odd number of days – most of their funeral customs differ significantly. Therefore, understanding the correct processes is essential when arranging either funeral service in Singapore.
Do not hesitate to consult Excellence Funeral Services if you are unsure of the appropriate rituals for your religion or dialect group. We can advise you accordingly and ensure you observe the correct rites and customs as you pay your respects to a departed loved one. Contact us today to learn more about our funeral packages.
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