Resting in peace: Funeral and burial traditions in Southeast Asia

Shaped by centuries-old traditions, ceremonies involving the death of a loved one in Southeast Asia are rich in cultural and spiritual symbolism.

Across countries and religions, these practices, with many of the rituals blending elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and local traditions, share the common ideas of respect for elders, a deep sense of family and community connection, and belief in the afterlife.

According to Kevin Yu, a sociologist and university lecturer, “Regional customs, religious beliefs, and family preferences shape the diverse funeral traditions across the region.

While some incorporate Western ideas, they often do so in a hybrid way – mixing ancient Southeast Asian practices with modern influences,” he told Thai PBS World.

Colors for the dead

Kevin cited the use of the commonly preferred colors for funerals to symbolize mourning.

“While black is now the most noticeably used for funerals in modernized or urban areas, in many countries in East Asia, white used to be the primary color of mourning as it represents purity, peace, and the natural cycle of life,” he explained.

“In Buddhist traditions, particularly in Southeast Asia, yellow or gold may be used to symbolize spiritual purity and the path to enlightenment. In certain communities, blue may be worn as a sign for respect and mourning, particularly in rural or traditional settings.

“However, Western influences are now showing up in some funerals and today black seems to be the dominant color.

Red, however, is still generally avoided. But in some cultures, and if the deceased was more than 80 years old, flowers and the clothing of friends and family may include pink or red in celebration of a long life,” he added.

Across cultures

Prevalent in Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions, the ritual of burning incense at funerals is believed to purify the environment.

“This practice also helps create a sacred space for family and friends to express reverence and respect. The smoke from the incense symbolizes the bridge between the physical world and the spiritual realm,” Kevin said.

In Vietnam, traditional funeral rituals may last several days. The family sets up an altar adorned with white flowers, fruits, candles, incense, and a photograph for the viewing or visitation.

“The ritual includes cleansing the body of the deceased, putting on new clothing, and covering the body with a white sheet,” said Tuk, a tour guide.

“The casket stays open during the visitation, and guests bow to the casket three or four times – odd numbers are considered lucky. Meals are offered to guests, and monks lead the chanting and prayers. A procession to the crematory or gravesite follows,” she continued.

In Indonesia, particularly in Bali, where Hinduism has a significant influence, a colorful and elaborate cremation ritual called Ngaben, is practiced.

“The ceremony is believed to purify the soul of the deceased. It entails detailed preparations, such as the construction of a cremation tower. Various rituals are also performed,” said one local resident.

In Thailand, Buddhist funeral customs are prevalent, as they are considered an important rite of passage, not just for the deceased but also for the grieving family.

“Thai funerals are a Buddhist ceremony of merit and rebirth,” declared Shada Kumnuan, a retired journalist. “Thai funerals are typically Theravada Buddhist, focused on earning merit for the deceased and promoting their smooth transition to a new life,” she said.

Buddhist monks play a central role, leading chants and prayers. Family members don white robes. Food, flowers, and incense are offered to the monks and to the deceased.

“Cremation is usually held after several days after the death, depending on auspicious dates. The ashes are collected afterwards, a portion is kept at home or interred at the temple,” said Shada.

Muslim funeral traditions emphasize simplicity, dignity, and respect for the deceased, with burial taking place as soon as possible after death and preferably within 24 hours.

The body is ritually washed, shrouded, and prayed over in the Salat al-Janazah, then buried facing Mecca in a simple grave.

“Attendees dress modestly in polite, subdued colors, which do not have to be strictly black or white. People in the community focus the mourning on prayer and supporting the grieving family rather than elaborate rituals,” a 38-year-old Muslim told Thai PBS World.

Sacred grounds

Cremation plays a significant role in traditional Southeast Asian funeral customs and Buddhist rites. It is believed to release the soul from the physical body, allowing it to begin its journey to the afterlife.

However, within the region, a few remaining burial traditions still exist, and are often uniquely fascinating. “In Tibet, for instance, there is an old tradition called sky burial, where bodies are offered to birds,” Kevin explained.

In Northern Philippines, hundreds of wooden coffins can be seen dangling from cliffs and caves.

“The Sagada tribe in Northern Philippines follows a unique burial ritual. Older tribe members, while still alive, make their own coffins out of hollowed logs. If they are too weak, other family members make the coffin instead. When they die, this ancient custom starts with a burial gathering characterized by mourning, butchering livestock, and preparing the body for entombment.”

The dead are placed inside the wooden coffin and later brought to a cave for burial.

“Instead of being placed into the ground, the coffin is hung either inside the caves or at the edge of a cliff near the hanging coffins of their ancestors. These coffins are hung due to the belief that the higher the dead are placed, the greater chance of their spirits reaching a higher nature in the afterlife,” Kevin explained.

The diversity of these practices in Southeast Asia reflects the region’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

“Understanding these practices not only promotes cultural sensitivity but also gives insights into the values and beliefs of the different communities and societies. Understanding these differences in today’s modern world allows greater global understanding and respect,” he concluded.

(This story is part of a series about vanishing cultural traditions in Southeast Asia.)