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{{Short description|Ceremony for a person who has died}}
{{redirect|Burial service||Funeral (disambiguation)|and|Burial Service (disambiguation){{!}}Burial Service}}
{{hatnote group|
{{hatnote|Several other terms redirect here.}}
{{for-text|their other uses|[[Funeral Rites (novel)|''Funeral Rites'' (novel)]], ''[[Burial Rites]]'' (novel), ''[[Death Rite]]'' (film), ''[[Death Rituals]]'' (album), and ''[[Celebration of Life]]'' (play)}}
}}
{{multiple image|perrow = 2|total_width=400
| header = Funerary practices in different cultures
| image1 = Opening of the mouth ceremony (cropped).jpg |width1=1600|height1=1116
| caption1 = [[Opening of the mouth ceremony]] ([[Ancient Egyptian religion|Ancient Egypt]])
| image4 = Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India (2011).jpg |width4=720|height4=482
| caption4 = Cremations at [[Manikarnika Ghat]] ([[Hinduism|Hindu]])
| image3 = JohnPaulII-funeral.jpg |width3=508|height3=320
| caption3 = [[Funeral of Pope John Paul II]] ([[Catholic Church]])
| image2 = Kotsuage.JPG|width2=1600|height2=1200
| caption2 = [[Japanese funeral#Cremation|''Kotsuage'' bone picking ceremony]] ([[Japanese Buddhism|Japanese Buddhist]])
| image6 = Bodies wrapped in tallit at funeral in Givat Shaul (Fogel family).jpg|width6=300|height6=224
| caption6 = ''[[Tallit]]'' shrouds ([[Judaism]])
| image5 = Muslim Funeral1.jpg |width5=400|height5=190
| caption5 = Funeral procession in India ([[Islam]])
}}
A '''funeral''' is a [[ceremony]] connected with the [[Disposal of human corpses|final disposition]] of a corpse, such as a [[burial]] or [[cremation]], with the attendant observances.<ref>{{OED|funeral}}</ref> Funerary customs comprise the complex of beliefs and practices used by a [[culture]] to remember and respect the dead, from interment, to various [[monument]]s, [[prayer]]s, and [[ritual]]s undertaken in their honour. Customs vary between cultures and [[Religion|religious]] groups. For a dedicated overview of contemporary Australian practices, see [[Funeral rituals and trends in Australia]]. Funerals have both [[normative]] and legal components. Common secular motivations for funerals include [[mourning]] the deceased, celebrating their life, and offering support and sympathy to the bereaved; additionally, funerals may have religious aspects that are intended to help the [[soul]] of the deceased reach the [[afterlife]], [[resurrection]] or [[reincarnation]].

The funeral usually includes a ritual through which the [[corpse]] receives a final disposition.<ref name=":0" /> Depending on culture and religion, these can involve either the destruction of the body (for example, by [[cremation]], [[sky burial]], [[decomposition]], [[Structural integrity and failure|disintegration]] or [[Alkaline hydrolysis|dissolution]]) or its preservation (for example, by [[mummification]]). Differing beliefs about cleanliness and [[Mind–body problem|the relationship between body and soul]] are reflected in funerary practices. A '''memorial service''' ('''service of remembrance''' or '''celebration of life''') is a funerary ceremony that is performed without the remains of the deceased person.<ref name="celebrationoflife">{{cite web|title=The difference between funerals and celebrations of life – funerals often include flowers such as VineLily Moments or VineLily see www.vinelily.com. Funeral Costs Help|url=http://funeralcostshelp.co.uk/difference-funerals-celebrations-life/|website=Funeral Costs Help|date=30 July 2014}}</ref> In both a closed casket funeral<ref name="LTKClosedCasket">{{cite web |last1=White |first1=Mary Gormandy |title=What is a closed-casket funeral? |url=https://www.lovetoknow.com/life/grief-loss/what-is-closed-casket-funeral |website=Love to Know |access-date=31 October 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240926123023/https://www.lovetoknow.com/life/grief-loss/what-is-closed-casket-funeral |archive-date=26 September 2024 |date=14 August 2020 |url-status=live}}</ref> and a memorial service, photos of the deceased representing stages of life would be displayed on an altar. Relatives or friends would give out eulogies in both services as well.<ref name="WFHMemorial">{{cite web |title=Funeral vs memorial service: Learn the difference |url=https://www.westchesterfuneralhome.com/memorial-service-vs-celebration-of-life |website=Westchester Funeral Home |access-date=31 October 2024}}</ref>

== Etymology ==
The word ''funeral'' comes from the [[Latin]] ''funus'', which had a variety of meanings, including the corpse and the funerary rites themselves. [[Funerary art]] is art produced in connection with burials, including many kinds of [[tomb]]s, and objects specially made for burial like flowers with a [[corpse]].

==Overview==
[[File:Peasant Funeral.jpg|thumb|''Peasant funeral in the [[Maumturks|Mam Turk mountains]] of [[Connemara]], [[Ireland]]'', 1870]]

Funeral rites pre-date modern ''[[Homo sapiens]]'' and dated to at least 300,000 years ago.<ref name=British>{{cite journal |url=http://www.archaeologyuk.org/ba/ba66/feat1.shtml |title=When Burial Begins |journal=British Archaeology |date=August 2002 |author=Paul Pettitt |access-date=28 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160615142318/http://www.archaeologyuk.org/ba/ba66/feat1.shtml |archive-date=15 June 2016 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> For example, in the [[Shanidar Cave]] in Iraq, in [[Bontnewydd Palaeolithic site|Pontnewydd Cave]] in Wales and at other sites across Europe and the [[Near East]],<ref name=British /> Archaeologists have discovered [[Neanderthal]] skeletons with a characteristic layer of [[flower]] [[pollen]]. This deliberate burial and reverence given to the dead has been interpreted as suggesting that [[Neanderthal|Neanderthals]] had religious beliefs,<ref name=British /> although the evidence is not unequivocal – while the dead were apparently buried deliberately, burrowing rodents could have introduced the flowers.<ref>{{Cite journal|first=J. D. |last=Sommer |year=1999 |title=The Shanidar&nbsp;IV 'Flower Burial': a Re-evaluation of Neanderthal Burial Ritual |journal=Cambridge Archaeological Journal |volume=9 |issue=1 |pages=127–129 |issn=0959-7743 |doi=10.1017/S0959774300015249 |s2cid=162496872 }}</ref>

Substantial cross-cultural and historical research document funeral customs as a highly predictable, stable force in communities.<ref>{{Cite book|title = Funeral Customs the World Over|last = Habenstein|first = Robert|publisher = Bulfin|year = 1963|location = Milwaukee, WI}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|title = Death and Bereavement Across Cultures, 2nd ed.|last = Parkes|first = Colin M.|publisher = Routledge|year = 2015|isbn = 978-0415522366|location = New York}}</ref> Funeral customs tend to be characterized by five "anchors": significant symbols, gathered community, ritual action, cultural heritage, and transition of the dead body (corpse).<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title = Do Funerals Matter? Purposes and Practices of Death Rituals in Global Perspective|last = Hoy|first = William G.|publisher = Routledge|year = 2013|isbn = 978-0415662055}}</ref>
==Locations==
The most common venues for funeral services would be in a place of worship ([[synagogue]] or church) or a [[funeral home]]. However, a [[cemetery]]'s [[chapel]] features a reflecting serene intimacy as well as a respectful environment for clergy, mourning families and friends. Graveside services are a less common option for these rituals. A [[mausoleum]]'s chapel mostly intends to be for entombment after the funeral itself. If a funeral is subsequently followed by cremation, the service would be in a [[crematorium]].

==Religious funerals==
===Bahá'í Faith===
In the [[Baháʼí Faith]], burial law prescribes both the location of burial and burial practices and precludes cremation of the dead. It is forbidden to carry the body for more than one hour's journey from the place of death. Before interment the body should be wrapped in a shroud of silk or cotton, and a ring should be placed on its finger bearing the inscription "I came forth from God, and return unto Him, detached from all save Him, holding fast to His Name, the Merciful, the Compassionate". The coffin should be of crystal, stone or hard fine wood. Also, before interment, a specific Prayer for the Dead<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bahai.org/library/authoritative-texts/prayers/bahai-prayers/3#628747668 |title=Bahá'í Prayers|publisher=bahai.org |date=2002 |access-date=9 June 2025}}</ref> is ordained. The body should be placed with the feet facing the [[Qiblih]]. The formal prayer and the ring are meant to be used for those who have reached 15 years of age. Since there are no Bahá'í clergy, services are usually conducted under the guidance, or with the assistance of, a Local [[Spiritual Assembly]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Smith |first=Peter |author-link=Peter Smith (historian) |title=A Concise Encyclopedia of the Baháʼí Faith |url = https://books.google.com/books?id=Yhy9DwAAQBAJ  |year=2000 |publisher=Oneworld Publications |location=Oxford |isbn=1-85168-184-1 |pages=96–97}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |title=Kitáb-i-Aqdas |publisher=Baháʼu'lláh}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://bahai-library.com/compilation_bahai_burial |title=Baháʼí Burial |publisher=Bahai-library.com |access-date=25 March 2011}}</ref>

===Buddhist===
{{main|Funeral (Buddhism)}}
[[File:Vulture - Sky burial.jpg|thumb|Vultures feeding on a human corpse in a [[sky burial]]]]
A Buddhist funeral marks the transition from one life to the next for the deceased. It also reminds the living of their own mortality. [[Cremation]] is the preferred choice,<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.funeralpartners.co.uk/help-advice/arranging-a-funeral/types-of-funerals/buddhist-funerals/#:~:text=Buddhists%20and%20cremation,seen%20as%20a%20good%20deed|title=Buddhist funerals|publisher=Funeral Partners}}</ref> although [[burial]] is also allowed. Buddhists in [[Tibet]] perform [[sky burial]]s where the body is exposed to be eaten by [[vultures]]. The body is dissected with a blade on the mountain top before the exposure. Crying and wailing is discouraged and the {{transliteration|bo|rogyapas}} (body breakers who perform the ritual) laugh as if they are doing farm work. [[Tibetan Buddhist]]s believe that a lighthearted atmosphere during the funeral helps the soul of the dead to get a better afterlife. After the vultures consume all the flesh the {{transliteration|bo|rogpyas}} smash the bones into pieces and mix them with [[tsampa]] to feed to the vultures.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tibettravel.org/tibetan-local-customs/tibetan-funeral.html|title=Sky Burial in Tibet, Tibetan Funeral Customs|website=Tibet Travel and Tours - Tibet Vista}}</ref>

===Christian===
{{see also|Christian burial|Cremation in Christianity}}
[[File:Mar Varghese Payyappilly Palakkappilly Funeral.jpg|thumb|Funeral of [[India]]n [[Syro-Malabar Catholic Church|Syro-Malabar Catholic]], [[Venerable]] [[Varghese Payyappilly Palakkappilly]] on 6 October 1929]]

Congregations of varied [[Christian denomination|denominations]] perform different funeral ceremonies, but most involve offering prayers, scripture reading from the Bible, a sermon, homily, or eulogy, and music.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite book|title = Accompany Them with Singing: The Christian Funeral|last = Long|first = Thomas G.|publisher = Westminster John Knox Press|year = 2009|isbn = 978-0664233198|location = Louisville, KY}}</ref> One issue of concern as the 21st century began was with the use of secular music at Christian funerals, a custom generally forbidden by the [[Catholic Church]].<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/bereavement-and-funerals/music-at-funerals.cfm|title=Bereavement and Funerals – Music at funerals|website=US Conference of Catholic Bishops|access-date = 7 September 2015}}</ref>

Christian burials have traditionally occurred on [[Consecration|consecrated]] ground such as in [[churchyard]]s. There are many funeral norms in Christianity.<ref>{{cite web |title=Funeral Norms |url=https://formationreimagined.org/funeral-norms/ |website=formationreimagined.org |access-date=23 March 2021}}</ref> Burial, rather than a destructive process such as cremation, was the traditional practice amongst Christians, because of the belief in the resurrection of the body. Cremations later came into widespread use, although some denominations forbid them. The [[US Conference of Catholic Bishops]] said "The Church earnestly recommends that the pious custom of burying the bodies of the deceased be observed; nevertheless, the Church does not prohibit cremation unless it was chosen for reasons contrary to Christian doctrine" (canon 1176.3).<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/bereavement-and-funerals/|title =Bereavement and Funerals|website=US Conference of Catholic Bishops|access-date = 7 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Funerals - Death and the afterlife - GCSE Religious Studies Revision - WJEC |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zc4cng8/revision/4 |access-date=2024-12-18 |website=BBC Bitesize |language=en-GB}}</ref>

===Hindu===
{{main|Antyesti}}
[[File:Bagamati cremation.jpg|thumb|A Hindu cremation rite in [[Nepal]]. The samskara above shows the body wrapped in saffron red on a pyre.]]
[[Antyesti]], literally 'last rites' or 'last sacrifice', refers to the rite-of-passage rituals associated with a funeral in Hinduism.<ref>[http://spokensanskrit.de/index.php?script=HK&beginning=0+&tinput=funeral+&trans=Translate&direction=AU Antayesti] Cologne Sanskrit Digital Lexicon, Germany</ref> It is sometimes referred to as {{transliteration|hi|Antima Samskaram, Antya-kriya, Anvarohanyya}}, or {{transliteration|hi|Vahni Sanskara}}.

A dead adult [[Hindus|Hindu]] is cremated, while a dead child is typically buried.<ref name=olsonant/><ref name=fowler>J Fowler (1996), Hinduism: Beliefs and Practices, Sussex Academic Press, {{ISBN|978-1898723608}}, pp. 59–60</ref> The rite of passage is said to be performed in harmony with the sacred premise that the microcosm of all living beings is a reflection of a macrocosm of the universe.<ref name="terje">Terje Oestigaard, in The Oxford Handbook of the Archaeology of Death and Burial (Editors: [[Sarah Tarlow]], Liv Nilsson Stutz), Oxford University Press, {{ISBN|9780191650383}}, pp. 497–501</ref> The soul (Atman, Brahman) is believed to be the immortal essence that is released at the {{transliteration|hi|Antyeshti}} ritual, but both the body and the universe are vehicles and transitory in various schools of Hinduism. They consist of five elements: air, water, fire, earth and space.<ref name=terje/> The last rite of passage returns the body to the five elements and origins.<ref name=olsonant>Carl Olson (2007), The Many Colors of Hinduism: A Thematic-historical Introduction, Rutgers University Press, {{ISBN|978-0813540689}}, pp. 99–100</ref><ref name=terje/> The roots of this belief are found in the Vedas, for example in the hymns of [[Rigveda]] in section 10.16, as follows:

{{poemquote|
Burn him not up, nor quite consume him, Agni: let not his body or his skin be scattered,
O all possessing Fire, when thou hast matured him, then send him on his way unto the Fathers.
When thou hast made him ready, all possessing Fire, then do thou give him over to the Fathers,
When he attains unto the life that waits him, he shall become subject to the will of gods.
The Sun receive thine eye, the Wind thy ''Prana'' (life-principle, breathe); go, as thy merit is, to earth or heaven.
Go, if it be thy lot, unto the waters; go, make thine home in plants with all thy members.
|Rigveda 10.16<ref>Sanskrit:
*[http://sa.wikisource.org/wiki/ऋग्वेद:_सूक्तं_१०.१६ ऋग्वेद: सूक्तं १०.१६] Wikisource;
*[https://archive.org/stream/rigvedasanhitc06wils#page/38/mode/2up Sukta XVI – Rigveda], English Translation: HH Wilson (Translator), pages 39–40;
* Wendy Doniger (1981), The Rig Veda, Penguin Classics, {{ISBN|978-0140449891}}, see chapter on Death</ref>}}

The [[Antyesti|final rites]] of a burial, in case of untimely death of a child, is rooted in Rigveda's section 10.18, where the hymns mourn the death of the child, praying to deity Mrityu to "neither harm our girls nor our boys", and pleads the earth to cover, protect the deceased child as a soft wool.<ref>[https://archive.org/stream/rigvedasanhitc06wils#page/46/mode/2up Sukta XVIII – Rigveda], English Translation: HH Wilson (Translator), pages 46-49 with footnotes;</ref><ref>Wendy Doniger (1981), The Rig Veda, Penguin Classics, {{ISBN|978-0140449891}}, see chapter on Death</ref>

Among Hindus, the dead body is usually cremated within a day of death. In Hindu tradition, the body is usually kept at home with the family until its time for cremation. A typical Hindu funeral includes three main stages: a gathering or wake in the home, the cremation itself—referred to as mukhagni—and a follow-up ritual called the shraddha ceremony.<ref>Hindu Funeral & Death Rituals: A Complete Guide | Memorial Planning. (2025, January 6). Memorial Planning |. https://www.memorialplanning.com/resources/religious-funerals-guide/hindu-funerals-guide/</ref> The body is washed, wrapped in white cloth for a man or a widow, red for a married woman,<ref name=fowler/> the two toes tied together with a string, a {{transliteration|hi|Tilak}} (red mark) placed on the forehead.<ref name=olsonant/> The dead adult's body is carried to the cremation ground near a river or water, by family and friends, and placed on a pyre with feet facing south.<ref name=fowler/> The eldest son, or a male mourner, or a priest then bathes before leading the cremation ceremonial function.<ref name=olsonant/><ref name=carrie>Carrie Mercier (1998), Hinduism for Today, Oxford University Press, {{ISBN|978-0199172542}}, p. 58</ref> He circumambulates the dry wood pyre with the body, says a eulogy or recites a [[hymn]] in some cases, places sesame seed in the dead person's mouth, sprinkles the body and the pyre with [[ghee]] (clarified butter), then draws three lines signifying {{transliteration|hi|Yama}} (deity of the dead), {{transliteration|hi|Kala}} (time, deity of cremation) and the dead.<ref name=olsonant/> The pyre is then set ablaze, while the mourners mourn. The ash from the cremation is consecrated to the nearest river or sea.<ref name=carrie/> After the cremation, a period of mourning is observed for 10 to 12 days after which the immediate male relatives or the sons of the deceased shave their head, trim their nails, recites prayers with the help of priest or Brahmin and invite all relatives, kins, friends and neighbours to eat a simple meal together in remembrance of the deceased.
During the mourning period, sleeping arrangements in the home change too. Mattresses are taken off the beds and placed on the floor, and for twelve days, everyone in the household sleeps on the floor as part of the funeral customs.<ref>Laungani, P. (2001). Hindu deaths in India—Part 1. International Journal of Health Promotion and Education, 39(3), 88–96. https://doi.org/10.1080/14635240.2001.10806179</ref> This day, in some communities, also marks a day when the poor and needy are offered food in memory of the dead.<ref>Colin Parkes et al. (2015), Death and Bereavement Across Cultures, Routledge, {{ISBN|978-0415522366}}, pp. 66–67</ref> In most Hindu communities the last day of the mourning is called as Terahveen (the thirteenth day), and on this day items of basic needs along with some favourite items of the deceased are donated to the priests. Also on the same day the eldest son of the family is ceremonially crowned (called ''Pagdi Rasm'') for he is now the head of the family. A feast is also organised for [[Brahmin]]s, family members, and friends.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Significance of the 13-Day Mourning Period: What Friends Need to Know |url=https://www.asianindianfuneralservice.com/blog/blog/the-significance-of-the-13-day-mourning-period-what-friends-need-to-know |access-date=2024-12-18 |website=www.asianindianfuneralservice.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Zoroastrianism===
[[File:Parsee Tower of Silence, Bombay.jpg|thumb|[[Parsi]] Tower of Silence, [[Bombay]]]]
The belief that bodies are infested by [[Nasu (Zoroastrianism)|Nasu]] upon death greatly influenced Zoroastrian burial ceremonies and funeral rites. Burial and cremation of corpses was prohibited, as such acts would defile the sacred creations of earth and fire respectively.<ref>Vd. 7:25</ref> Burial of corpses was so looked down upon that the exhumation of "buried corpses was regarded as meritorious." For these reasons, "[[Towers of Silence]]" were developed—[[wikt:open air|open air]], [[amphitheater]] like structures in which [[corpses]] were placed so carrion-eating birds could feed on them.

[[Sagdid|Sagdīd]], meaning 'seen by a dog,' is a ritual that must be performed as promptly after death as possible. The dog is able to calculate the degree of evil within the corpse, and entraps the contamination so it may not spread further, expelling Nasu from the body.<ref>''[[Denkard]]''. 31</ref> Nasu remains within the corpse until it has been seen by a dog, or until it has been consumed by a dog or a carrion-eating bird.<ref>Vd. 7:3</ref> According to chapter 31 of the Denkard, the reasoning for the required consumption of corpses is that the evil influences of Nasu are contained within the corpse until, upon being digested, the body is changed from the form of nasa into nourishment for animals. The corpse is thereby delivered over to the animals, changing from the state of corrupted nasa to that of hixr, which is "dry dead matter," considered to be less polluting.

A path through which a funeral procession has traveled must not be passed again, as Nasu haunts the area thereafter, until the proper rites of banishment are performed.<ref>Vd. 8:15</ref> Nasu is expelled from the area only after "a yellow dog with four eyes, or a white dog with yellow ears" is walked through the path three times.<ref>Vd. 8:16</ref> If the dog goes unwillingly down the path, it must be walked back and forth up to nine times to ensure that Nasu has been driven off.<ref>Vd. 8:17-18</ref>

Zoroastrian [[ritual]] exposure of the dead is first known of from the writings of the mid-5th century BCE [[Herodotus]], who observed the custom amongst [[Iranian peoples|Iranian]] expatriates in [[Asia Minor]]. In Herodotus' account ([[Histories (Herodotus)|Histories]] i.140), the rites are said to have been "secret", but were first performed after the body had been dragged around by a bird or dog. The corpse was then embalmed with wax and laid in a trench.

While the discovery of [[Ossuary|ossuaries]] in both eastern and western Iran dating to the 5th and 4th centuries BCE indicates that bones were isolated, that this separation occurred through ritual exposure cannot be assumed: burial mounds,<ref>{{citation|last=Falk|first=Harry|title=Soma I and II|journal=Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies|volume=52|issue=1|year=1989|pages=77–90|doi=10.1017/s0041977x00023077|s2cid=146512196}}</ref> where the bodies were wrapped in wax, have also been discovered. The tombs of the [[Achaemenid empire|Achaemenid emperors]] at [[Naqsh-e Rustam]] and [[Pasargadae]] likewise suggest non-exposure, at least until the bones could be collected. According to legend (incorporated by [[Ferdowsi]] into his [[Shahnameh]]), [[Zoroaster]] is himself interred in a tomb at [[Balkh]] (in present-day [[Afghanistan]]).

Writing on the culture of the [[Persians]], [[Herodotus]] reports on the Persian burial customs performed by the [[Magi]], which are kept secret. However, he writes that he knows they expose the body of male dead to dogs and birds of prey, then they cover the corpse in wax, and then it is buried.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/herodotus-iii|title=Herodotus iii. Defining the Persians|website=Iranicaonline.org – Encyclopaedia Iranica|access-date=24 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190129214830/http://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/herodotus-iii|archive-date=29 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> The Achaemenid custom is recorded for the dead in the regions of [[Bactria]], [[Sogdia]], and [[Hyrcania]], but not in [[Western Iran]].

The Byzantine historian [[Agathias]] has described the burial of the Sasanian general [[Mihr-Mihroe]]: "the attendants of Mermeroes took up his body and removed it to a place outside the city and laid it there as it was, alone and uncovered according to their traditional custom, as refuse for dogs and horrible carrion".

Towers are a much later invention and are first documented in the early 9th century CE. The ritual customs surrounding that practice appear to date to the [[Sassanid]] era (3rd–7th century CE). They are known in detail from the supplement to the ''[[Shāyest nē Shāyest]]'', the two ''[[Revayat]]s'' collections, and the two Saddars.

===Islamic===
{{main|Islamic funeral}}
[[File:Algeria 1779 Antique Hand Col Print. Algerine Funeral.jpg|thumb|1779 [[Algeria]]n [[Salat al-Janazah|funerals]]]]
[[File:Equipment for washing and preparing bodies at Afaq khoja Mosque, Kashgar. 2010.jpg|thumb|Equipment for washing and preparing bodies at Afaq khoja Mosque, [[Kashgar]]]]

Funerals in [[Islam]] (called {{transliteration|ar|Janazah}} in Arabic) follow fairly specific [[Ritual purity in Islam|rites]]. In all cases, however, [[sharia]] (Islamic [[religious law]]) calls for burial of the body, preceded by a simple ritual involving bathing and shrouding the body, followed by {{transliteration|ar|[[salat]]}} (prayer).

Burial rituals should normally take place as soon as possible and include:
* Bathing the dead body with water, [[camphor]] and leaves of [[ziziphus lotus]],<ref>[[Sahih al-Bukhari]] 1254</ref> except in extraordinary circumstances as in battle.<ref>Sahih al-Bukhari 1346</ref>
* [[Shroud|Enshrouding]] the dead body in a white cotton or linen cloth except extraordinary cases such as battle. In such cases apparel of corpse is not changed.<ref>[[Sahih Muslim]] 943</ref>
* Reciting the [[Salat al-Janazah|funeral prayer]] in all cases for a Muslim.
* Burial of the dead body in a grave in all cases for a Muslim.
* Positioning the deceased so that when the face or body is turned to the right side it faces [[Mecca]].

The mourning period is 40 days long.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|url=https://slate.com/human-interest/2018/04/food-in-a-time-of-mourning-can-celebrate-life-and-death.html|title=How Do People Decide Which Snacks Belong at a Funeral?|last=Price|first=Dawnthea|work=Slate Magazine|access-date=2018-04-26|language=en}}</ref>

===Jewish===
{{main|Bereavement in Judaism}}
In [[Judaism]], funerals follow fairly specific rites, though they are subject to variation in custom. [[Halakha]] calls for preparatory rituals involving bathing and shrouding the body accompanied by prayers and readings from the [[Hebrew Bible]], and then a funeral service marked by eulogies and brief prayers, and then the lowering of the body into the grave and the filling of the grave. Traditional law and practice forbid cremation of the body; the [[Reform Judaism|Reform]] Jewish movement generally discourages cremation but does not outright forbid it.<ref name=Jewish>{{cite web|title=Jewish Funeral Traditions|url=https://www.everplans.com/tools-and-resources/jewish-funeral-traditions|publisher=Everplans|access-date=17 June 2014}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://reformjudaism.org/practice/ask-rabbi/what-reform-judaisms-position-cremation|title=What is Reform Judaism's position on cremation?|date=2013-07-16|work=ReformJudaism.org|access-date=2018-02-28|language=en}}</ref>

Burial rites should normally take place as soon as possible and include:
* Bathing the dead body.
* Enshrouding the dead body. Men are shrouded with a {{transliteration|he|[[kittel]]}} and then (outside the [[Land of Israel]]) with a {{transliteration|he|[[tallit]]}} (shawl), while women are shrouded in a plain white cloth.
* Keeping watch over the dead body.
* Funeral service, including eulogies and brief prayers.
* Burial of the dead body in a grave.<ref name=Jewish />
* Filling of the grave, traditionally done by family members and other participants at the funeral.
* In many communities, the deceased is positioned so that the feet face the [[Temple Mount]] in [[Jerusalem]] (in anticipation that the deceased will be facing the reconstructed [[Third Temple]] when the [[messiah]] arrives and [[resurrection of the dead|resurrects the dead]]).<ref name=davidson>{{cite web|title=Are Bodies Buried in a Specific Direction?|url=http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/1672031/jewish/Are-Bodies-Buried-in-a-Specific-Direction.htm|access-date=November 9, 2014 }}</ref>

===Sikh===
In Sikhism death is not considered a natural process, an event that has absolute certainty and only happens as a direct result of God's Will or [[Hukam]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sikh Funerals |url=https://www.funeralpartners.co.uk/help-advice/arranging-a-funeral/types-of-funerals/sikh-funerals/ |access-date=2024-10-06 |website=Funeral Partners |language=en-US}}</ref> In Sikhism, birth and death are closely associated, as they are part of the cycle of human life of "coming and going" ({{langx|pa|ਆਵਣੁ ਜਾਣਾ|Aana Jaana}}) which is seen as a transient stage towards Liberation ({{langx|pa|ਮੋਖੁ ਦੁਆਰੁ|Mokh Du-aar|label=none}}), understood as completely in unity with God. Sikhs believe in reincarnation.

Death is only the progression of the soul on its journey from God, through the created universe and back to God again. In life a Sikh is expected to constantly remember death so that they may be sufficiently prayerful, detached and righteous to break the cycle of birth and death and return to God.

The public display of grief by wailing or crying out loud at the funeral (called {{transliteration|pa|[[Antam Sanskar]]}}) is discouraged and should be kept to a minimum. Cremation is the preferred method of disposal, burial and burial at sea are also allowed if by necessity or by the will of the person. Markers such as gravestones, monuments, etc. are not allowed, because the body is considered to be just the shell and the person's soul is their real self.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sikh Funerals |url=https://www.funeralpartners.co.uk/help-advice/arranging-a-funeral/types-of-funerals/sikh-funerals/ |website=Funeral Partners}}</ref>

On the day of the cremation, the body is washed and dressed and then taken to the Gurdwara or home where hymns (Shabadads) from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, the Sikh Scriptures are recited by the congregation. Kirtan may also be performed by Ragis while the relatives of the deceased recite "[[Waheguru]]" sitting near the coffin. This service normally takes from 30 to 60 minutes. At the conclusion of the service, an Ardas is said before the coffin is taken to the cremation site.

At the point of cremation, a few more Shabadads may be sung and final speeches are made about the deceased person. The eldest son or a close relative generally lights the fire. This service usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. The ashes are later collected and disposed of by immersing them in a river, preferably one of the five rivers in the state of [[Punjab, India]].

The ceremony in which the Sidharan Paath is begun after the cremation ceremony, may be held when convenient, wherever the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is present.

Hymns are sung from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji; the first five and final verses of "Anand Sahib," the "Song of Bliss," are recited or sung. The first five verses of Sikhism's morning prayer, "Japji Sahib", are read aloud to begin the Sidharan paath. A hukam, or random verse, is then read from Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Ardas, a prayer, is offered, and Prashad, a sacred sweet, is distributed. Langar, a meal, is then served to guests.

While the Sidharan paath is being read, the family may also sing hymns daily. Reading may take as long as needed to complete the paath.

This ceremony is followed by Sahaj Paath Bhog, Kirtan Sohila, night time prayer is recited for one week, and finally Ardas called the "Antim Ardas" ("Final Prayer") is offered the last week.<ref>{{Cite web |last=International |first=Sikh Dharma |date=2021-12-03 |title=Sikh Death Ceremonies and Protocols |url=https://www.sikhdharma.org/sikh-death-ceremonies-and-protocols/ |access-date=2023-11-02 |website=Sikh Dharma International}}</ref>

===Celtic===
It was custom for an officiant to walk in front of the coffin with a horse's skull; this tradition was still observed by [[Welsh people|Welsh peasants]] up until the 19th century.<ref>Merthyr Telegraph, and General Advertiser for the Iron Districts of South Wales, 1 May 1874: "In the funerals of Welsh peasants it is common even now to carry a horse's skull in front of the coffin."</ref>

==Western funerals==
===Classical antiquity===
====Ancient Greece====
[[File:Gela Painter - Black-Figure "Pinax" (Plaque) - Walters 48225.jpg|thumb|The lying in state of a body ''(prothesis)'' attended by family members, with the women ritually tearing their hair ([[Attica|Attic]], latter 6th century BCE)]]

{{Main|Ancient Greek funerals and burial}}
The Greek word for funeral – ''kēdeía'' (κηδεία) – derives from the verb ''kēdomai'' (κήδομαι), that means attend to, take care of someone. Derivative words are also ''kēdemón'' (κηδεμών, "guardian") and ''kēdemonía'' (κηδεμονία, "guardianship"). From the Cycladic civilization in 3000 BCE until the Hypo-Mycenaean era in 1200–1100 BCE the main practice of burial is interment. The cremation of the dead that appears around the 11th century BCE constitutes a new practice of burial and is probably an influence from the East. Until the Christian era, when interment becomes again the only burial practice, both cremation and interment had been practiced depending on the area.<ref>Lemos 2002: Lemos I., The Protogeometric Aegean. The Archaeology of the Late Eleventh and Tenth Centuries BC, Oxford</ref>

The ancient Greek funeral since the [[Homer]]ic era included the ''próthesis'' (πρόθεσις), the ''ekphorá'' (ἐκφορά), the burial and the ''perídeipnon'' (περίδειπνον). In most cases, this process is followed faithfully in Greece until today.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ims.forth.gr/joint_projects/e-mem/burial_customs-gr.htm#archaic|title=IMS-FORTH: About IMS|website=www.ims.forth.gr|access-date=2008-09-19|archive-date=2013-03-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130318204155/http://www.ims.forth.gr/joint_projects/e-mem/burial_customs-gr.htm#archaic|url-status=dead}}</ref>

''Próthesis'' is the deposition of the body of the deceased on the funeral bed and the threnody of his relatives. Today the body is placed in the casket, that is always open in Greek funerals. This part takes place in the house where the deceased had lived. An important part of the Greek tradition is the ''epicedium'', the mournful songs that are sung by the family of the deceased along with professional mourners (who are extinct in the modern era). The deceased was watched over by his beloved the entire night before the burial, an obligatory ritual in popular thought, which is maintained still.

''Ekphorá'' is the process of transport of the mortal remains of the deceased from his residence to the church, nowadays, and afterward to the place of burial. The procession in the ancient times, according to the law, should have passed silently through the streets of the city. Usually certain favourite objects of the deceased were placed in the coffin in order to "go along with him". In certain regions, [[Charon's obol|coins to pay Charon]], who ferries the dead to the underworld, are also placed inside the casket. A last kiss is given to the beloved dead by the family before the coffin is closed.

[[File:2011 Enterrement de Jacquotte.jpg|thumb|left|Funeral with [[flowers]] on [[marble]]]]
The Roman orator [[Cicero]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Marcus Tullius Cicero |url=https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-history/marcus-tullius-cicero |website=www.history.com |date=16 December 2009 |publisher=A&E Television Networks |access-date=22 February 2019}}</ref> describes the habit of planting flowers around the tomb as an effort to guarantee the repose of the deceased and the purification of the ground, a custom that is maintained until today. After the ceremony, the mourners return to the house of the deceased for the ''perídeipnon'', the dinner after the burial. According to archaeological findings – traces of ash, bones of animals, shards of crockery, dishes and basins – the dinner during the classical era was also organized at the burial spot. Taking into consideration the written sources, however, the dinner could also be served in the houses.<ref>{{cite web|author=Ανώνυμος Πιστός και Απολογητής του Χριστού |url=http://www.apologitis.com/gr/ancient/tafi_ethima.htm |title=Apologitis.com |publisher=Apologitis.com |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref>

The ''Necrodeipnon'' (Νεκρόδειπνον) was the funeral banquet which was given at the house of the nearest relative.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0062:entry=necrodeipnon-harpers|title=Harry Thurston Peck, Harpers Dictionary of Classical Antiquities (1898), Necrodeipnon|website=www.perseus.tufts.edu}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=n8VsONHSDDQC&dq=%CE%9D%CE%B5%CE%BA%CF%81%CF%8C%CE%B4%CE%B5%CE%B9%CF%80%CE%BD%CE%BF%CE%BD&pg=PA346|title=The Odyssey of Homer|date=March 4, 1858|publisher=Leavitt and Allen|via=Google Books}}</ref>

Two days after the burial, a ceremony called "the thirds" was held. Eight days after the burial the relatives and the friends of the deceased assembled at the burial spot, where "the ninths" would take place, a custom still kept. In addition to this, in the modern era, [[memorial services]] take place 40 days, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, 1 year after the death and from then on every year on the anniversary of the death. The relatives of the deceased, for an unspecified length of time that depends on them, are in mourning, during which women wear black clothes and men a black armband.{{Clarify|date=June 2016|reason=this section is about ancient Greece. Is this modern Greece, or what? Is it religious or national?}}

''Nekysia'' (Νεκύσια), meaning the day of the dead, and ''Genesia'' (Γενέσια), meaning the day of the forefathers (ancestors), were yearly feasts in honour of the dead.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0062:entry=nekysia-harpers|title=Harry Thurston Peck, Harpers Dictionary of Classical Antiquities (1898), Nekysia|website=www.perseus.tufts.edu}}</ref><ref>{{cite book| author = Evy Johanne Haland| title = Rituals of Death and Dying in Modern and Ancient Greece| date = 2 October 2014| publisher = Cambridge Scholars Publishing| isbn = 978-1443861274| page = 320| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=XC9QBwAAQBAJ}}</ref>

''Nemesia'' (Νεμέσια) or ''Nemeseia'' (Nεμέσεια) was also a yearly feast in honour of the dead, most probably intended for averting the anger of the dead.<ref>{{cite book| author = Erwin Rohde| title = Psyche: The Cult of Souls and Belief in Immortality among the Greeks.| date = 10 July 2014| publisher = Martino Fine Books| isbn = 978-1684223176| page = 168| url = https://books.google.com/books?id=bq0ABAAAQBAJ}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus:text:1999.04.0063:entry=nemeseia-cn|title=A Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1890), NEMESEIA|website=www.perseus.tufts.edu}}</ref>

====Ancient Rome====
{{unreferenced section|date=February 2014}}
[[File:Sepolcro degli Scipioni 001 Entrata.jpg|thumb|Tomb of the [[Cornelia (gens)#Cornelii Scipiones|Scipios]], in use from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE]]
{{Main|Roman funerals and burial}}
In [[ancient Rome]], the eldest surviving male of the household, the ''pater familias'', was summoned to the death-bed, where he attempted to catch and inhale the last breath of the decedent.

Funerals of the socially prominent usually were undertaken by professional undertakers called ''libitinarii''. No direct description has been passed down of Roman funeral rites. These rites usually included a public procession to the tomb or pyre where the body was to be cremated. The surviving relations bore masks bearing the images of the family's deceased ancestors. The right to carry the masks in public eventually was restricted to families prominent enough to have held ''curule magistracies''. Mimes, dancers, and musicians hired by the undertakers, and professional female mourners, took part in these processions. Less well-to-do Romans could join benevolent funerary societies (''collegia funeraticia'') that undertook these rites on their behalf.

Nine days after the disposal of the body, by burial or cremation, a [[Banquet|feast]] was given (''cena novendialis'') and a libation poured over the grave or the ashes. Since most Romans were cremated, the ashes typically were collected in an urn and placed in a niche in a collective tomb called a ''columbarium'' (literally, "dovecote").<ref>{{Cite web |title=Columbarium {{!}} Roman, Architecture, Memorial {{!}} Britannica |url=https://www.britannica.com/topic/columbarium |access-date=2025-04-20 |website=www.britannica.com |language=en}}</ref> During this nine-day period, the house was considered to be tainted, ''funesta'', and was hung with Taxus baccata or Mediterranean Cypress branches to warn passersby. At the end of the period, the house was swept out to symbolically purge it of the taint of death.

Several Roman holidays commemorated a family's dead ancestors, including the ''Parentalia'', held February 13 through 21, to honor the family's ancestors; and the [[Lemuralia|Feast of the Lemures]], held on May 9, 11, and 13, in which [[ghost]]s (''larvae'') were feared to be active, and the ''pater familias'' sought to appease them with offerings of beans.

The Romans prohibited cremation or inhumation within the sacred boundary of the city ''([[pomerium]])'', for both religious and civil reasons, so that the priests might not be contaminated by touching a dead body, and that houses would not be endangered by funeral fires.

Restrictions on the length, ostentation, expense of, and behaviour during funerals and mourning gradually were enacted by a variety of lawmakers. Often the pomp and length of rites could be politically or socially motivated to advertise or aggrandise a particular kin group in Roman society. This was seen as deleterious to society and conditions for grieving were set. For instance, under some laws, women were prohibited from loud wailing or lacerating their faces and limits were introduced for expenditure on tombs and burial clothes.

The Romans commonly built tombs for themselves during their lifetime. Hence these words frequently occur in ancient inscriptions, V.F. Vivus Facit, V.S.P. Vivus Sibi Posuit. The tombs of the rich usually were constructed of [[marble]], the ground enclosed with walls, and planted around with trees. But common sepulchres usually were built below ground, and called [[hypogea]]. There were niches cut out of the walls, in which the urns were placed; these, from their resemblance to the niche of a pigeon-house, were called [[Columbarium|columbaria]].

===North American funerals===
Within the United States and Canada, in most cultural groups and regions, the funeral rituals can be divided into three parts: visitation, funeral, and the burial service. A [[home funeral]] (services prepared and conducted by the family, with little or no involvement from professionals) is legal in nearly every part of North America, but in the 21st century, they are uncommon in the US.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.registerguard.com/news/20191117/saying-goodbye-your-way|title=When her 4-year-old son died, she wanted a home funeral. A professional didn't know that was possible|last=Parafiniuk-Talesnick|first=Tatiana|newspaper=[[USA Today]]|language=en-US|access-date=2019-12-06|archivedate=2019-12-06|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206053335/https://www.registerguard.com/news/20191117/saying-goodbye-your-way|url-status=deviated}}</ref>
[[File:South Korea funeral motorcade.jpg|thumb|A western-style funeral motorcade for a member of a high-ranking military family in [[South Korea]]]]

====Visitation====<!-- This section is linked from Coffin -->
{{redirect|Open casket}}
At the ''visitation'' (also called a "[[Viewing (funeral)|viewing]]", "[[Wake (ceremony)|wake]]" or "calling hours"), in Christian or secular Western custom, the body of the deceased person (or decedent) is placed on display in the casket (also called a coffin, however almost all body containers are caskets). The viewing often takes place on one or two evenings before the funeral. In the past, it was common practice to place the casket in the decedent's home or that of a relative for viewing. This practice continues in many areas of Ireland and Scotland. The body is traditionally dressed in the decedent's best clothes. In recent times there has been more variation in what the decedent is dressed in – some people choose to be dressed in clothing more reflective of how they dressed in life. The body will often be adorned with common jewelry, such as watches, necklaces, brooches, etc. The jewelry may be taken off and given to the family of the deceased prior to burial or be buried with the deceased. Jewelry has to be removed before cremation in order to prevent damage to the crematory. The body may or may not be embalmed, depending upon such factors as the amount of time since the death has occurred, religious practices, or requirements of the place of burial.

The most commonly prescribed aspects of this gathering are that the attendees sign a book kept by the deceased's survivors to record who attended. In addition, a family may choose to display photographs taken of the deceased person during his/her life (often, formal portraits with other family members and candid pictures to show "happy times"), prized possessions and other items representing his/her hobbies and/or accomplishments. A more recent trend{{when|date=September 2025}} is to create a DVD with pictures and video of the deceased, accompanied by music, and play this DVD continuously during the visitation.

The viewing is either "open casket", in which the embalmed body of the deceased has been clothed and treated with cosmetics for display; or "closed casket", in which the coffin is closed. The coffin may be closed if the body was too badly damaged because of an accident or fire or other trauma, deformed from illness, if someone in the group is emotionally unable to cope with viewing the corpse, or if the deceased did not wish to be viewed. In cases such as these, a picture of the deceased, usually a formal photo, is placed atop the casket.

[[File:Tombstone of Yossele the Holy Miser.jpg|thumb|left|The tombstone of [[Yossele the Holy Miser]]. According to [[Jewish bereavement]] tradition, the dozens of stones on his tombstone mark respect for the Holy Miser.]]
However, this step is foreign to Judaism; Jewish funerals are held soon after death (preferably within a day or two, unless more time is needed for relatives to come), and the corpse is never displayed. Torah law forbids embalming.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/282548/jewish/The-Basics.htm |title=Torah law forbids embalming |publisher=Chabad.org |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> Traditionally flowers (and music) are not sent to a grieving Jewish family as it is a reminder of the life that is now lost. The Jewish [[Shiva (Judaism)|shiva]] tradition discourages family members from cooking, so food is brought by friends and neighbors.<ref name=":4" /> (''See also [[Jewish bereavement]].'')

The decedent's closest friends and relatives who are unable to attend frequently send flowers to the viewing, with the exception of a Jewish funeral,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.whichfuneralplans.com/_webedit/uploaded-files/All%20Files/Jewish_Funeral_and_Mourning_Customs.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141222112216/http://www.whichfuneralplans.com/_webedit/uploaded-files/All%20Files/Jewish_Funeral_and_Mourning_Customs.pdf |archive-date=2014-12-22 |url-status=dead |title=Jewish Funeral and Mourning Customs |website=whichfuneralplans.com |access-date=2014-11-26 }}</ref> where flowers would not be appropriate (donations are often given to a charity instead).

[[Obituary|Obituaries]] sometimes contain a request that attendees do not send flowers (e.g. "In lieu of flowers"). The use of these phrases has been on the rise for the past century. In the US in 1927, only 6% of the obituaries included the directive, with only 2% of those mentioned [[charitable organization|charitable contributions]] instead. By the middle of the century, they had grown to 15%, with over 54% of those noting a charitable contribution as the preferred method of expressing sympathy.<ref>A Centennial History of the American Florist, a publication of Florists' Review Enterprises, Inc., Frances Porterfield Dudley, Publisher, 1997.</ref>

====Funeral====
[[File:Baby Funeral - DPLA - 0988dd5995f3643b8e3b9a444c068c52.jpg|thumb|left|Funeral for a child, 1920]]
The deceased is usually transported from the funeral home to a church in a hearse, a specialized vehicle designed to carry casketed remains. The deceased is often transported in a procession (also called a funeral cortège), with the [[hearse]], funeral service vehicles, and private automobiles traveling in a procession to the church or other location where the services will be held. In a number of jurisdictions, special laws cover funeral processions – such as requiring most other vehicles to give right-of-way to a funeral procession. Funeral service vehicles may be equipped with light bars and special flashers to increase their visibility on the roads. They may also all have their headlights on, to identify which vehicles are part of the cortege, although the practice also has roots in ancient Roman customs.<ref>Olmert, Michael (1996). ''Milton's Teeth and Ovid's Umbrella: Curiouser & Curiouser Adventures in History'', p.34. Simon & Schuster, New York. {{ISBN|0-684-80164-7}}.</ref> After the funeral service, if the deceased is to be buried the funeral procession will proceed to a cemetery if not already there. If the deceased is to be cremated, the funeral procession may then proceed to the crematorium.

[[File:Beethoven Funerals (without frame).jpg|thumb|[[Death of Ludwig van Beethoven|Beethoven]]'s funeral as depicted by [[Franz Xaver Stöber]]]]
Funeral customs vary from country to country. In the United States, any type of noise other than quiet whispering or mourning is considered disrespectful.

A burial tends to cost more than a cremation.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Statistics|url=https://nfda.org/news/statistics|access-date=2021-04-22|website=nfda.org}}</ref>

====Burial service====
{{unreferenced section|date=February 2014}}
[[File:Millais - Das Tal der Stille.jpg|right|thumb|[[John Everett Millais]] – The Vale of Rest]]

At a religious burial service, conducted at the side of the grave, [[tomb]], [[mausoleum]] or cremation, the body of the decedent is buried or cremated at the conclusion.

Sometimes, the burial service will immediately follow the funeral, in which case a [[funeral procession]] travels from the site of the funeral to the burial site. In some other cases, the burial service is the funeral, in which case the procession might travel from the cemetery office to the grave site. Other times, the burial service takes place at a later time, when the final resting place is ready, if the death occurred in the middle of winter.

If the decedent served in a branch of the Armed forces, [[military rites]] are often accorded at the burial service.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Administration|first=National Cemetery|title=Military Funeral Honors - National Cemetery Administration|url=https://www.cem.va.gov/military_funeral_honors.asp|access-date=2021-04-22|website=www.cem.va.gov|language=en}}</ref>

In many religious traditions, [[pallbearer]]s, usually males who are relatives or friends of the decedent, will carry the casket from the chapel (of a funeral home or church) to the hearse, and from the hearse to the site of the burial service.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Three Important Things To Know About Choosing Pallbearers|url=https://www.everplans.com/articles/three-important-things-to-know-about-choosing-pallbearers|access-date=2021-04-22|website=Everplans|language=en}}</ref>

Most religions expect coffins to be kept closed during the burial ceremony. In [[Eastern Orthodoxy|Eastern Orthodox]] funerals, the coffins are reopened just before burial to allow mourners to look at the deceased one last time and give their final farewells. Greek funerals are an exception as the coffin is open during the whole procedure unless the state of the body does not allow it.

[[File:Medieval Royal Funeral007.jpg|thumb|[[Middle Ages|Medieval]] depiction of a royal body being laid in a coffin]]
Morticians may ensure that all jewelry, including wristwatch, that were displayed at the wake are in the casket before it is buried or entombed. Custom requires that everything goes into the ground; however this is not true for Jewish services. Jewish tradition stipulates that nothing of value is buried with the deceased.

In the case of cremation such items are usually removed before the body goes into the furnace. Pacemakers are removed prior to cremation – if left in they could explode.

===Indigenous Americans===
Funerals for indigenous people, like many other cultures, are a method to remember, commemorate and respect the dead through their own cultural practices and traditions.

==== California ====
[[Dakota Access Pipeline|In the past]], there has been scrutiny when the topic of indigenous funeral sites was approached. Thus the federal government deemed it necessary to include a series of acts that would protect and accurately affiliate some of these burials with their correct native individuals or groups. This was enacted through the [[Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act]]. Furthermore, in 2001 California created the California Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act that would "require all state agencies and museums that receive state funding and that have possession or control over collections of humans remains or cultural items to provide a process for identification and repatriates of these items to appropriate tribes." In 2020, it was amended to include tribes that were beyond State and Federal knowledge.

=== Western Yuman region ===
In the [[Ipai language|Ipai]], [[Kumeyaay|Tipai]], [[Paipai people|Paipai]], and [[Kiliwa people|Kiliwa]] regions funeral practices are similar in their social and power dynamics. The way that these funeral sites were created was based on previous habitation. Meaning, these were sites were their peoples may have died or if they had been a temporary home for some of these groups.<ref name="Laylander 159–176">{{Cite journal |last=Laylander |first=Don |date=September 2011 |title=Diversity in Prehistoric Burials and Cemeteries in the Western Yuman Region |url=http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1179/cal.2011.3.2.159 |journal=California Archaeology |language=en |volume=3 |issue=2 |pages=159–176 |doi=10.1179/cal.2011.3.2.159 |s2cid=128819838 |issn=1947-461X|url-access=subscription }}</ref> Additionally, these individual burials were characterized by grave markers and/or grave offerings. The markers included inverted metates, fractured pieces of metates as well as cairns. As for offerings, food, shell and stone beads were often found in burial mounds along with portions human remains.

The state of the human remains found at the site can vary, data suggests<ref name="Laylander 159–176"/> that cremations are recent in prehistory compared to just burials. Ranging from the middle [[Holocene]] era to the Late [[Prehistory|Prehistoric Period]]. Additionally, the position these people were placed in plays a role in how the afterlife was viewed. With recent ethnographic evidence coming from the Yuman people, it is believed that the spirits of the dead could potentially harm the living. so, they would often layer the markers or offerings above the body so that they would be unable to "leave" their graves and enact harm.
[[File:Western Yuman.png|thumb|Western Yuman Region, California and Baja California]]

====Tongva====
In the Los Angeles Basin, researchers discovered communal mourning features at West Bluffs and Landing Hill. These communal mourning rituals were estimated to have taken place during the Intermediate Period (3,000-1,000 B.P.). Archaeologists have found fragmented pieces of a large schist pestle which was deliberately broken in a methodical way. Other fragmented vessels show signs of uneven burning on the interior surface presumed to have been caused by burning combustible material.

In the West Bluffs and Landing Hill assemblages there are many instances of artifacts that were dyed in red ochre pigment after being broken. The tradition of intentionally breaking objects has been a custom in the region for thousands of  years for the purpose of releasing the spirit within the object, reducing harm to the community, or as an expression of grief. Pigmentation of grave goods also has many interpretations, the Chumash associate the color red with both earth and fire. While some researchers consider the usage of the red pigment as an important transitional moment in the adult life cycle.<ref>Hull, K. L., Douglass, J. G., & York, A. L. (2013). Recognizing ritual action and intent in communal mourning features on the Southern California coast. American Antiquity, 78(1), 24-47.</ref>

===Memorial services<!--'Memorial service' and 'Memorial services' redirect here-->===
{{see also|Memorial service in the Eastern Orthodox Church}}
[[Image:BrochureMemorialSvcWilliamMcKinleyInsidePagesNashuaNH09191901.jpg|thumb|Order of exercises, local memorial service in Nashua, New Hampshire, for U.S. President [[William McKinley]] on September 19, 1901, following his assassination]]

A '''memorial service'''<!--boldface per WP:R#PLA--><ref name=":104">{{Cite news|url=https://funeralprintings.com/a-funeral-program-for-the-memories-of-the-deceased/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201007184931/https://funeralprintings.com/a-funeral-program-for-the-memories-of-the-deceased/|url-status=dead|archive-date=2020-10-07|title=memorial service|date=2020}}</ref> or '''memorial gathering''' is one given for the deceased, often without the body present. The service takes place ''after'' cremation or [[burial at sea]], after an entombment in a mausoleum's crypt, after donation of the body to an academic or research institution, after a traditional burial in a cemetery plot (remains either in a coffin or an urn) or after the ashes have been scattered someplace. It is also significant when the person is [[Declared death in absentia|missing and presumed dead]], or known to be deceased though the body is not recoverable. These services often take place at a funeral home;<ref>{{Cite web|title=Memorial Service vs Funeral {{!}} Why Choose a Memorial Service|url=https://www.honanfh.com/memorial-services|access-date=2021-04-22|website=www.honanfh.com}}</ref> however, they can be held in a home, university, town hall, country club, restaurant, beach, community center, pub, workplace, hotel, museum, place of worship, townhouse, hospital chapel, civic center, health club, sports field, performing arts center, cemetery chapel, an urban park or other location of some significance. A memorial service may include speeches (eulogies), prayers, poems, or songs (most particularly hymns) to commemorate the deceased. Pictures of the deceased and flowers with sometimes an urn are usually placed where the coffin would normally be placed.

After the sudden deaths of important public officials, public memorial services have been held by communities, including those without any specific connection to the deceased. For examples, community memorial services were held after the [[assassination of James A. Garfield|assassinations of US presidents James A. Garfield]] and [[assassination of William McKinley|William McKinley]].

===European funerals===


====Finland====
[[File:Mannerheims funeral parade Helsinki.png|thumb|A funeral parade of [[Marshal Mannerheim]] in [[Helsinki]], Finland, on February 4, 1951. [[Helsinki Lutheran Cathedral]] on the background.]]
In Finland, religious funerals (''hautajaiset'') are quite [[Asceticism|ascetic]] and typically follow [[Lutheranism|Lutheran]] traditions.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Butters |first=Maija |date=2017-01-02 |title=Between East and West: A diachronic overview of Finnish death culture |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/07481187.2016.1257885 |journal=Death Studies |language=en |volume=41 |issue=1 |pages=51–60 |doi=10.1080/07481187.2016.1257885 |pmid=27845612 |issn=0748-1187|url-access=subscription }}</ref> The local priest or minister says prayers and blesses the deceased in their house. The mourners (''saattoväki'') traditionally bring food to the mourners' house. Common current practice has the deceased placed into the coffin in the place where they died. The undertaker will pick up the coffin and place it in the hearse and drive it to the funeral home, while the closest relatives or friends of the deceased will follow the hearse in a funeral procession in their own cars. The coffin will be held at the funeral home until the day of the funeral. The funeral services may be divided into two parts. First is the church service (''siunaustilaisuus'') in a cemetery chapel or local church, then the burial.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The funeral service |url=https://www.helsinginseurakunnat.fi/en/artikkelit/thefuneralservice |access-date=2025-03-17 |website=Helsingin seurakunnat |language=en}}</ref>

====Iceland====
{{further|Icelandic funeral|}}

====Italy====
The majority of Italians are [[Roman Catholic]] and follow [[Catholic funeral]] traditions. Historically, mourners would walk in a funeral procession to the gravesite; today vehicles are used.

====Greece====
Greek funerals are generally held in churches, including a [[Trisagion]] service. There is usually a 40-day mourning period, and the end of which, a memorial service is held. Every year following, a similar service takes place, to mark the anniversary of the death.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Laemers |first=Dave |date=2016-08-24 |title=A History of Greek Funerals |url=https://basicfunerals.ca/cultural-funerals/history-greek-funerals/ |access-date=2023-08-30 |website=Basic Funerals |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Seremetakis |first=Constantina Nadia |title=The last word: women, death, and divination in Inner Mani |date=1997 |publisher=Univ. of Chicago Press |isbn=978-0-226-74876-4 |edition=Nachdr. |location=Chicago}}</ref>

====Poland====
{{see also|Catholic funeral|}}
In Poland, in urban areas, there are usually two, or just one "stop". The body, brought by a hearse from the mortuary, may be taken to a church or to a cemetery chapel. There is then a funeral mass or service at the cemetery chapel. Following the mass or Service the casket is carried in procession (usually on foot) by hearse to the grave. Once at the grave-site, the priest will commence the graveside committal service and the casket is lowered. The mass or service usually takes place at the cemetery.

In some traditional rural areas, the wake (''czuwanie'') takes place in the house of the deceased or their relatives. The body lies in state for three days in the house. The funeral usually takes place on the third day. Family, neighbors and friends gather and pray during the day and night on those three days and nights. There are usually three stages in the funeral ceremony (''ceremonia pogrzebowa'', ''pogrzeb''): the wake (''czuwanie''), then the body is carried by procession (usually on foot) or people drive in their own cars to the church or cemetery chapel for mass, and another procession by foot to the gravesite.

After the funeral, families gather for a post-funeral get-together (''stypa''). It can be at the family home, or at a function hall. In Poland cremation is less popular because the Catholic Church in Poland prefers traditional burials (though cremation is allowed). Cremation is more popular among non-religious people and Protestants in Poland.

====Russia====
{{further|Russian traditions and superstitions|}}

====Scotland====
An old funeral rite from the Scottish Highlands involved burying the deceased with a wooden plate resting on his chest. On the plate were placed a small amount of earth and salt, to represent the future of the deceased. The earth hinted that the body would decay and become one with the earth, while the salt represented the soul, which does not decay. This rite was known as "earth laid upon a corpse". This practice was also carried out in Ireland, as well as in parts of England, particularly in Leicestershire, although in England the salt was intended to prevent air from distending the corpse.<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=bmpMAAAAMAAJ&pg=PA262&lpg=PA262 "Salt"], IN: ''The Table Book of Daily Recreation and Information; Concerning Remarkable Men, Manners, Times, Seasons, Solemnities, Merry-Makings, Antiquities and Novelties, Forming a Complete History of the Year'', ed. William Hone, (London: 1827) p 262. Retrieved on 2008-07-02.</ref>

====Spain====
In Spain, a burial or cremation may occur very soon after a death. Most Spaniards are Roman Catholics and follow Catholic funeral traditions. First, family and friends sit with the deceased during the wake until the burial. Wakes are a social event and a time to laugh and honor the dead. Following the wake comes the [[funeral mass]] (Tanatorio) at the church or cemetery chapel. Following the mass is the burial. The coffin is then moved from the church to the local cemetery, often with a procession of locals walking behind the hearse.
====Sweden====
[[File:Magnus Olsson funeral 2024-08-20-019.jpg|thumb|Funeral procession at [[Katarina Church]] in Stockholm in 2024]]
The first Swedish evangelical order of burial was given in [[Olaus Petri]]'s handbook of 1529. From the medieval order, it had only kept burial and cremation.<ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite book|editor=[[Gunnar Carlquist|Carlquist, Gunnar]] |year=1933 |title=[[Swedish reference book]]. Bd 14 |publication-place=Malmö |publisher=Svensk Upslagsbok AB |page=607}}</ref> The funeral where the priest blessed the recently deceased, which after the Reformation came to be called a reading, was forbidden in the church order of 1686, but was taken over by lay people instead. It was then followed by the wake, which was banned by the church law in 1686, when it was often considered degenerate to do dancing and games where beer and brandy were served.<ref>''Nationalencyklopedin'' multimedia plus, 2000</ref> It came however, to live on in the custom of "singing out corpses". In older times, the grave was often shoveled closed during the hymn singing. During the 17th century, homilies became common, they were later replaced by grift speeches, which, however, never became mandatory. In 1686, it was decided that those who had lived a Christian life should be ''honestly and properly buried in a grave''. It also determined that the burial would be performed by a priest in the Church of Sweden (later some religious communities were given the right to bury their dead themselves). Burial could only take place at a burial site intended for the purpose. Loss of honorable burial became a punishment. A distinction was made between silent burial (for some serious criminals) and quiet burial without singing and [[bell ringing]] and with abbreviated ritual (for some criminals, unbaptized children and for those who committed suicide). Church burial was compulsory for members of the Church of Sweden until 1926, when the possibility was opened for civil burial.<ref name="ReferenceA"/>
====United Kingdom====
In the UK, funerals are commonly held at a church, crematorium or cemetery chapel.<ref name="which">{{cite web|url=https://www.which.co.uk/later-life-care/end-of-life/funeral-arrangements/plans-for-the-service-itself-af3tb8f3j8kl|title=Planning a funeral service|publisher=Which? magazine|date=2019-08-09|access-date=2019-10-01}}</ref> Historically, it was customary to bury the dead, but since the 1960s, cremation has been more common.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.urnsforashes.co.uk/cremation-statistics/|title=National Cremation Statistics 1960–2017|publisher=The Cremation Society of Great Britain|date=2018-08-03|access-date=2010-09-08}}</ref>

While there is no visitation ceremony like in North America, relatives may view the body beforehand at the [[funeral home]]. A room for viewing is usually called a ''chapel of rest''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/help-resources/arranging-a-funeral/what-is-a-chapel-of-rest|title=Chapel of Rest &#124; What is a Chapel of Rest? - Funeral Guide|website=www.funeralguide.co.uk}}</ref> Funerals typically last about half an hour.<ref name="which-cremation"/> They are sometimes split into two ceremonies: a main funeral and a shorter ''committal'' ceremony. In the latter, the coffin is either handed over to a crematorium<ref name="which-cremation">{{cite web|url=https://www.which.co.uk/later-life-care/end-of-life/funeral-arrangements/cremation-service-a33fj9x7m3tk|title=Planning a cremation service|publisher=Which? magazine|date=2019-08-09|access-date=2019-10-01}}</ref> or buried in a cemetery.<ref name="which-burial">{{cite web|url=https://www.which.co.uk/later-life-care/end-of-life/funeral-arrangements/planning-a-burial-asjqw4r4pwjc|title=Planning a burial|publisher=Which? magazine|date=2019-08-09|access-date=2019-10-01}}</ref> This allows the funeral to be held at a place without cremation or burial facilities. Alternatively, the entire funeral may be held in the chapel of the crematorium or cemetery. It is not customary to view a cremation; instead, the coffin may be removed from the chapel or hidden with curtains towards the end of the funeral.<ref name="which-cremation"/>

After the funeral, it is common for the mourners to gather for refreshments. This is sometimes called a [[Wake (ceremony)|wake]], though this is different from how the term is used in other countries, where a wake is a ceremony before the funeral.<ref name="which"/>
====Wales====
Traditionally, a good funeral (as they were called) had one draw the curtains for a period of time; at the wake, when new visitors arrived, they would enter from the front door and leave through the back door. The women stayed at home whilst the men attended the funeral, the village priest would then visit the family at their home to talk about the deceased and to console them.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/webarchive/https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bbc.co.uk%2Fblogs%2Fwales%2Fentries%2F9c24f1e1-d62c-3e28-a1db-7664cad06183|title=A good Welsh funeral|date=28 October 2010|website=BBC Wales}}</ref>

The first child of [[William Price (physician)|William Price]], a [[Wales|Welsh]] [[Neo-Druidism|Neo-Druidic]] priest, died in 1884. Believing that it was wrong to bury a corpse, and thereby pollute the earth, Price decided to cremate his son's body, a practice which had been common in [[Celts (modern)|Celtic]] societies.
The police arrested him for the illegal disposal of a corpse.<ref>{{cite news | url = http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2002/09/15/1032054710047.html?oneclick=true| title = Druid doc with a bee in his bonnet | access-date = 2007-02-03 | first = Tim | last = Harris | work = theage.com.au | date = 2002-09-16 | location= Melbourne}}</ref> Price successfully argued in court that while the law did not state that cremation was legal, it also did not state that it was illegal. The case set a precedent that, together with the activities of the newly founded Cremation Society of Great Britain, led to the ''Cremation Act 1902''.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://webapps.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk/heritagetrail/english/taf/drwilliamprice.html|title= Doctor William Price|publisher= Rhondda Cynon Taf Library Service|access-date= 1 June 2012|archivedate= 18 August 2018|archiveurl= https://web.archive.org/web/20180818052233/http://webapps.rhondda-cynon-taff.gov.uk/heritagetrail/english/taf/drwilliamprice.html|url-status= deviated}}</ref> The Act imposed procedural requirements before a cremation could occur and restricted the practice to authorised places.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.srgw.demon.co.uk/CremSoc3/StatutoryLaw/CAct1902.html | title = Cremation Act, 1902 | access-date = 2007-02-03 | archive-date = 2017-12-18 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171218073527/http://www.srgw.demon.co.uk/CremSoc3/StatutoryLaw/CAct1902.html | url-status = dead }}</ref>

==Other types of funerals==
[[File:Vögleins Begräbnis.jpg|thumb|The burial of a bird]]

=== Celebration of life<!--'Life celebration' and 'Celebration of life' redirect here--> ===
A growing number of families choose to hold a '''life celebration'''<!--boldface per WP:R#PLA--> or '''celebration of life'''<!--boldface per WP:R#PLA--><ref name=bbc1>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-31940529|title=Happy funerals: A celebration of life? |work=BBC News|date=14 June 2015|language=en-GB|access-date=2016-07-08|last1=Kelly|first1=Jon}}</ref><ref name=cnbc>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2013/01/29/heres-to-the-hereafter-celebrating-life-with-a-party.html|title=Here's to the Hereafter: Celebrating Life with a Party|last=Lisson|first=Meghan|website=[[CNBC]]|date=2013-01-29|access-date=2016-07-08}}</ref> event for the deceased. Like memorial services, this ceremony is held after burial, entombment or cremation of the deceased. An urn can be on display with flowers and photos on the altar after cremation like in a memorial service. Unlike funerals, the focus of the ceremony is on the life that was lived.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://eternallyloved.com/services/celebration-of-life/ | title=Celebration of Life - Funeral Service - Memorial Service }}</ref> Such ceremonies may be held outside the funeral home or place of worship; country clubs, cemetery chapels, restaurants, beaches, performing arts centers, urban parks, sports fields, hotels, civic centers, museums, hospital chapels, community centers, town halls, pubs and sporting facilities are popular choices based on the specific interests of the deceased. Celebrations of life focus on including the person's best qualities, interests, achievements and impact, rather than mourning a death.<ref name=bbc1/> Some events are portrayed as joyous parties, instead of a traditional somber funeral. Taking on happy and hopeful tones, celebrations of life discourage wearing black and focus on the deceased's individuality.<ref name=bbc1/> An extreme example might have "a fully stocked open bar, catered food, and even favors."<ref name=cnbc/> Notable recent celebrations of life ceremonies include those for [[René Angélil]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/celine-dion-breaks-down-celebration-life-memorial-service-late-husband-rene-angelil-1542064|title=Celine Dion breaks down at celebration of life memorial service for late husband Rene Angelil|first=Priya|last=Joshi|date=4 February 2016|website=ibtimes.co.uk}}</ref> and [[Maya Angelou]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://business.wfu.edu/blog/rising-joy-friends-family-honor-maya-angelou-cerem/|title=RISING JOY: Friends, family honor Maya Angelou in ceremony – Wake Forest University School of Business|website=wfu.edu}}</ref>

In Australia, funerary customs continue to evolve in response to cultural diversity and environmental awareness; see [[Funeral rituals and trends in Australia]] for details of current practices.

===Jazz funeral===
{{main|Jazz funeral}}
Originating in [[New Orleans, Louisiana]], U.S., alongside the emergence of [[jazz music]] in late 19th and early 20th centuries, the jazz funeral is a traditionally African-American burial ceremony and celebration of life unique to New Orleans that involves a parading funeral procession accompanied by a brass band playing somber hymns followed by upbeat jazz music. Traditional jazz funerals begin with a processional led by the [[funeral director]], family, friends, and the brass band, i.e., the "main line", who march from the funeral service to the burial site while the band plays slow [[dirge]]s and [[Christian hymn]]s. After the body is buried, or "cut loose", the band begins to play up-tempo, joyful jazz numbers, as the main line parades through the streets and crowds of "[[Second line (parades)|second liners]]" join in and begin dancing and marching along, transforming the funeral into a [[street festival]].<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|last1=Sakakeeny|first1=Matt|title=Jazz Funerals and Second Line Parades|url=http://www.knowlouisiana.org/entry/jazz-funerals-and-second-line-parades|encyclopedia=knowlouisiana.org Encyclopedia of Louisiana|editor=David Johnson|publisher=Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities|access-date=13 May 2017|date=3 February 2011|archivedate=28 April 2017|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170428230601/http://www.knowlouisiana.org/entry/jazz-funerals-and-second-line-parades|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Green===
{{main|Natural burial}}
[[File:Eloise woods 2011.jpg|thumb|A [[natural burial]] gravesite with just a stone to mark the grave]]
The terms "green burial" and "natural burial", used interchangeably, apply to ceremonies that aim to return the body with the earth with little to no use of artificial, non-biodegradable materials. As a concept, the idea of uniting an individual with the natural world after they die appears as old as human death itself, being widespread before the rise of the funeral industry. Holding environmentally-friendly ceremonies as a modern concept first attracted widespread attention in the 1990s. In terms of [[North America]], the opening of the first explicitly "green" burial cemetery in the U.S. took place in the state of [[South Carolina]]. However, the Green Burial Council, which came into being in 2005, has based its operations out of [[California]]. The institution works to officially certify burial practices for funeral homes and cemeteries, making sure that appropriate materials are used.<ref name="Natural">{{cite web|url=http://thecatholicspirit.com/news/local-news/catholic-cemeteries-to-offer-natural-burial-option-starting-in-fall/|title=Catholic Cemeteries to offer 'natural burial' option starting in fall |date=21 May 2018|website=The Catholic Spirit}}</ref>

Religiously, some adherents of the Roman Catholic Church often have particular interest in "green" funerals given the faith's preference to full burial of the body as well as the theological commitments to care for the environment stated in [[Catholic social teaching]].<ref name="Natural"/>

Those with concerns about the effects on the environment of traditional burial or cremation may be placed into a natural [[biodegradation|bio-degradable]] green burial shroud. That, in turn, sometimes gets placed into a simple coffin made of cardboard or other easily biodegradable material. Furthermore, individuals may choose their final resting place to be in a specially designed park or woodland, sometimes known as an "ecocemetery", and may have a tree or other item of greenery planted over their grave both as a contribution to the environment and a symbol of remembrance.

===Humanist and civil<!--'Civil funeral' and 'Civil memorial service' redirect here-->===
{{See also|Humanist celebrant|Civil funeral celebrant}}
[[Humanists UK]] organises a network of [[Humanist officiant|humanist funeral celebrants]] or officiants across England and Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Channel Islands<ref name=bha>{{cite web|url=http://www.humanism.org.uk/ceremonies/humanist-funerals-memorials |title=Humanist Funerals and Memorials |publisher=Humanism.org.uk |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> and a similar network is organised by the [[Humanist Society Scotland]]. Humanist officiants are trained and experienced in devising and conducting suitable ceremonies for non-religious individuals.<ref name=bbc>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/atheism/ritesrituals/funerals.shtml |title=Non-religious funerals |publisher=BBC |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> Humanist funerals recognise no "afterlife", but celebrate the life of the person who has died.<ref name=bha/> In the twenty-first century, humanist funerals were held for well-known people including [[Claire Rayner]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thejc.com/news/uk-news/39258/agony-aunt-claire-rayner-dies-age-79 |title=Jennifer Lipman, Agony aunt Claire Rayner dies at age 79', Jewish Chronicle, 12 October 2010 |publisher=Thejc.com |date=2010-10-12 |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> [[Keith Floyd]],<ref name="Floyd">{{cite news|author=Haroon Siddique and agencies |url=https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2009/sep/30/keith-floyd-humanist-funeral |title=Haroon Siddique, Mourners pay tribute to TV chef Keith Floyd at humanist funeral, The Guardian, 30 September 2009 |newspaper=Guardian |date=2009-09-30 |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Count |first=The |url=http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/Keith-Floyd-funeral-latest/article-1380466-detail/article.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130619221619/http://www.bristolpost.co.uk/news/Keith-Floyd-funeral-latest/article-1380466-detail/article.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-06-19 |title=Bristol Evening Post, Keith Floyd funeral in Bristol, 30 September 2009 |publisher=Bristolpost.co.uk |date=2009-09-30 |access-date=2013-05-21 }}</ref> [[Linda Smith (comedian)|Linda Smith]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/linda-smith-god-the-biggest-joke-of-all-468233.html |title=Linda Smith: God, the biggest joke of all |publisher=Independent.co.uk |date=2006-03-02 |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> and [[Ronnie Barker]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/4338658.stm |title=BBC, Family funeral for Ronnie Barker, 13 October 2005 |work=BBC News |date=2005-10-13 |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref>

In areas outside of the [[United Kingdom]], [[Republic of Ireland|Ireland]] has featured an increasing number of non-religious funeral arrangements according to publications such as ''Dublin Live''. This has occurred in parallel with a trend of increasing numbers of people carefully scripting their own funerals before they die, writing the details of their own ceremonies. The Irish Association of Funeral Directors has reported that funerals without a religious focus occur mainly in more [[Urban area|urbanized areas]] in contrast to rural territories.<ref name="Dublin">{{cite news|url=https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/rising-number-people-speaking-beyond-14621186|publisher=Dublin Live|title=Rising number of people speaking from 'beyond the grave' by writing their own eulogies|date=5 May 2018|first=Lynne|last=Kelleher|access-date=21 May 2018}}</ref> Notably, humanist funerals have started to become more prominent in other nations such as the [[Republic of Malta]], in which civil rights activist and humanist Ramon Casha had a large scale event at the Radisson Blu Golden Sands resort devoted to laying him to rest. Although such non-religious ceremonies are "a rare scene in Maltese society" due to the large role of the [[Roman Catholic Church]] within [[Culture of Malta|that country's culture]], according to ''Lovin Malta'', "more and more Maltese people want to know about alternative forms of burial... without any religion being involved".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.independent.com.mt/articles/2017-01-26/local-news/Humanist-chairman-Ramon-Casha-gets-both-Catholic-secular-funeral-6736169596|title=Humanist chairman Ramon Casha gets both Catholic, secular funeral|date=26 January 2017|access-date=23 May 2018|newspaper=[[The Malta Independent]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://lovinmalta.com/lifestyle/living-in-malta/so-how-do-you-organise-a-civil-secular-funeral-in-malta-exactly|title=So, How Do You Organise A Civil, Secular Funeral In Malta Exactly?|website=lovinmalta.com|date=26 January 2018}}</ref>

Actual events during non-religious funerals vary, but they frequently reflect upon the interests and personality of the deceased. For example, the humanist ceremony for the aforementioned [[Keith Floyd]], a [[restaurateur]] and [[television personality]], included a reading of [[Rudyard Kipling]]'s poetic work "[[If (Rudyard Kipling)|If—]]" and a performance by musician [[Bill Padley]].<ref name="Floyd"/> Organizations such as the Irish Institute of Celebrants have stated that more and more regular individuals request training for administering funeral ceremonies, instead of leaving things to other individuals.<ref name="Dublin"/>

More recently, some commercial organisations offer '''civil funerals'''<!--boldface per WP:R#PLA--> that can integrate traditionally religious content.<ref>{{cite web| url= http://www.iocf.org.uk/for-funeral-professionals-about-civil-funerals.html| title= About Civil Funerals| publisher= Institute of Funeral Celebrants| access-date= 2014-02-19| quote= Offered in England since April 2002, the Civil Funeral is a ceremony that reflects the beliefs and values of the deceased rather than those of the minister, officiant or Celebrant.| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180302054221/http://www.iocf.org.uk/for-funeral-professionals-about-civil-funerals.html| archive-date= 2018-03-02| url-status= dead}}</ref>

===Police/fire services===
[[Image:Stairway2heaven.jpg|left|thumb|Traditional "crossed-ladders" for a [[fire department]] funeral]]
Funerals specifically for fallen members of fire or police services are common in United States and Canada. These funerals involve honour guards from police forces and/or fire services from across the country and sometimes from overseas.<ref name="C.C Thomas">{{cite book|last1=Sanders|first1=William P.|title=Law enforcement funeral manual a practical guide for law enforcement agencies when faced with the death of a member of their department|date=2006|publisher=C.C Thomas|location=Springfield, IL|isbn=978-0398084783|edition=2nd}}</ref> A parade of officers often precedes or follows the hearse carrying the fallen comrade.<ref name="C.C Thomas"/> A traditional fire department funeral consists of two raised aerial ladders.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.funeralwise.com/customs/firefighter/definitions/|title=Firefighter Funeral Terms|work=Funeralwise|access-date=2018-03-07|language=en-US}}</ref> The firefighters travel under the aerials on their ride, on the fire apparatus, to the cemetery. Once there, the grave service includes the playing of bagpipes. The pipes have come to be a distinguishing feature of a fallen hero's funeral. Also a "Last Alarm Bell" is rung. A portable fire department bell is tolled at the conclusion of the ceremony.

===Masonic===
A [[Masonic funeral]] is held at the request of a departed Mason or family member. The service may be held in any of the usual places or a Lodge room with committal at graveside, or the complete service can be performed at any of the aforementioned places without a separate committal. Freemasonry does not require a Masonic funeral.

There is no single convention for a Masonic funeral service. Some Grand Lodges have a prescribed service (as it is a worldwide organisation). Some of the customs include the presiding officer wearing a hat while doing his part in the service, the Lodge members placing sprigs of evergreen on the casket, and a small white leather apron may being placed in or on the casket. The hat may be worn because it is Masonic custom (in some places in the world) for the presiding officer to have his head covered while officiating. To Masons, the sprig of evergreen is a symbol of immortality. A Mason wears a white leather apron, called a "lambskin", on becoming a Mason, and he may continue to wear it even in death.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Colon|first1=Felix|title=Masonic Funerals|url=http://www.millburnlodge127.com/masonicfunerals.html|publisher=Masonic Service Association|access-date=5 June 2014|archivedate=7 June 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140607012348/http://www.millburnlodge127.com/masonicfunerals.html|url-status=deviated}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://grandlodgeofiowa.org/docs/ObituaryRites/MasonicMemorialHandbook.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130124062756/http://grandlodgeofiowa.org/docs/ObituaryRites/MasonicMemorialHandbook.pdf |archive-date=2013-01-24 |url-status=live|title=Handbook for Masonic Memorial Services|website=Grandlodgeofiowa.org|access-date=22 September 2018}}</ref>

==Asian funerals==
{{see also|Chinese funerary art|Chinese veneration of the dead|Ancestor veneration in China|wu (shaman)|shi (personator)|joss paper|Culture of Vietnam#Funeral}}
{{unreferenced section|date=February 2014}}
[[File:Bundesarchiv Bild 137-009055, Leichenzug in Peking.jpg|thumb|left|Funeral procession in [[Beijing]], 1900]]
[[File:Korean Funeral Armband.png|thumb|A traditional armband indicating seniority and lineage in relation to the deceased, a common practice in South Korea]]

In most East Asian, South Asian and many Southeast Asian cultures, the wearing of white is symbolic of death. In these societies, white or off-white robes are traditionally worn to symbolize that someone has died and can be seen worn among relatives of the deceased during a funeral ceremony. In Chinese culture, red is strictly forbidden as it is a traditionally symbolic color of happiness. Exceptions are sometimes made if the deceased has reached an advanced age such as 85, in which case the funeral is considered a celebration, where wearing white with some red is acceptable. Contemporary Western influence however has meant that dark-colored or black attire is now often also acceptable for mourners to wear (particularly for those outside the family). In such cases, mourners wearing dark colors at times may also wear a white or off-white armband or white robe.

Contemporary [[South Korea]]n funerals typically mix western culture with traditional Korean culture, largely depending on socio-economic status, region, and religion. In almost all cases, all related males in the family wear woven armbands representing seniority and lineage in relation to the deceased, and must grieve next to the deceased for a period of three days before burying the body. During this period of time, it is customary for the males in the family to personally greet all who come to show respect. While burials have been preferred historically, recent trends show a dramatic increase in cremations due to shortages of proper burial sites and difficulties in maintaining a traditional grave. The ashes of the cremated corpse are commonly stored in [[columbaria]].

===In Japan===
{{main|Japanese funeral}}
[[File:Sudangee (last offices) shaving the head of the dead in Japan-J. M. W. Silver.jpg|thumb|Sudangee or last offices being performed on a dead person, illustration from 1867]]
Most Japanese funerals are conducted with Buddhist and/or Shinto rites.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2009/07/28/reference/japans-funerals-deep-rooted-mix-of-ritual-form/|title=Japan's funerals deep-rooted mix of ritual, form|last=Nakata|first=Hiroko|date=2009-07-28|newspaper=The Japan Times Online|language=en-US|issn=0447-5763|access-date=2017-01-31}}</ref> Many ritually bestow a new name on the deceased; funerary names typically use obsolete or archaic kanji and words, to avoid the likelihood of the name being used in ordinary speech or writing. The new names are typically chosen by a Buddhist priest, after consulting the family of the deceased.

Religious thought among the Japanese people is generally a blend of Shintō and Buddhist beliefs. In modern practice, specific rites concerning an individual's passage through life are generally ascribed to one of these two faiths. Funerals and follow-up memorial services fall under the purview of Buddhist ritual, and 90% Japanese funerals are conducted in a Buddhist manner[?]. Aside from the religious aspect, a Japanese funeral usually includes a wake, the cremation of the deceased, and inclusion within the family grave. Follow-up services are then performed by a Buddhist priest on specific anniversaries after death.

According to an estimate in 2005, 99% of all deceased Japanese are cremated.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.srgw.info/CremSoc5/Stats/Interntl/2005/StatsIF.html |title=Cremation Society of G.B. – International Cremation Statistics 2005 |publisher=Srgw.demon.co.uk |date=2007-02-06 |access-date=26 November 2014 |archivedate=2014-11-28 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141128224404/http://www.srgw.info/CremSoc5/Stats/Interntl/2005/StatsIF.html |url-status=deviated }}</ref> In most cases the cremated remains are placed in an [[urn]] and then deposited in a family grave. In recent years however, alternative methods of disposal have become more popular, including scattering of the ashes, burial in outer space, and conversion of the cremated remains into a [[diamond]] that can be set in jewelry.

===In the Philippines===
{{main|Funeral practices and burial customs in the Philippines}}
Funeral practices and burial customs in the Philippines encompass a wide range of personal, [[Filipino culture|cultural]], and [[traditional]] beliefs and practices which [[Filipino people|Filipinos]] observe in relation to death, bereavement, and the proper honoring, interment, and remembrance of the dead. These practices have been vastly shaped by the variety of religions and cultures that entered the Philippines throughout its complex [[History of the Philippines|history]].

Most if not all present-day Filipinos, like their ancestors, believe in some form of an [[afterlife]] and give considerable attention to [[veneration of the dead|honouring the dead]].<ref name=MC>[http://musical-chemist.blogspot.com/2009/01/filipinos-and-funeral-traditions.html Filipinos and Funeral Traditions], Organ-ic Chemist, musical-chemist.blogspot.com, January 24, 2009</ref> Except amongst [[Islam in the Philippines|Filipino Muslims]] (who are obliged to bury a corpse less than 24 hours after death), a wake is generally held from three days to a week.<ref name=Sandi>Clark, Sandi. [http://www.indiana.edu/~famlygrf/culture/clark.html Death and Loss in the Philippines], Grief in a Family Context, HPER F460, Summer, 1998, indiana.edu</ref> Wakes in rural areas are usually held in the home, while in urban settings the dead is typically displayed in a funeral home. Friends and neighbors bring food to the family, such as ''[[pancit]]'' noodles and ''[[bibingka]]'' cake'';'' any leftovers are never taken home by guests, because of a superstition against it.<ref name=":4" /> Apart from spreading the news about someone's death verbally,<ref name=Sandi/> [[obituaries]] are also published in newspapers. Although the majority of the Filipino people are Christians,<ref name=Babao>Guballa, Cathy Babao. [http://www.indiana.edu/~famlygrf/culture/babaoguballa.html Grief in the Filipino Family Context], indiana.edu</ref> they have retained some traditional indigenous beliefs concerning death.<ref name=KCC>Pagampao, Karen. [http://bosp.kcc.hawaii.edu/Horizons/horizons_1999/celebration2.html A Celebration of Death Among the Filipino] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111003092042/http://bosp.kcc.hawaii.edu/Horizons/horizons_1999/celebration2.html |date=2011-10-03 }}, bosp.kcc.hawaii.edu</ref><ref name=DPPS>Tacio, Henrylito D. [http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/dav/2005/10/30/feat/death.practices.philippine.style.html Death Practices Philippine Style] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100125125636/http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/dav/2005/10/30/feat/death.practices.philippine.style.html |date=2010-01-25 }}, sunstar.com, October 30, 2005</ref>

===In Korea===
{{main|Korean traditional funeral}}
[[File:Korean.cuisine-Yukgaejang-01.jpg|thumb|Yukgaejang is a spicy soup with a beef and vegetables in it. It is a Korean traditional food and served during funerals.]]
In Korea, funerals are typically held for three days and different things are done in each day.

The first day: on the day a person dies, the body is moved to a funeral hall. They prepare clothes for the body and put them into a chapel of rest. Then food is prepared for the deceased. It is made up of three bowls of rice and three kinds of Korean side dishes. Also, there has to be three coins and three straw shoes. This can be cancelled if the family of the dead person have a particular religion.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ehaneul.go.kr/contentsS.do?id=M010202003|title=ehanuel|access-date=2017-04-03}}</ref>
[[File:Soju in korean restaurant.JPG|left|thumb|213x213px|''[[Soju]]'', a Korean [[distilled drink]] served at funerals]]
On the second day the funeral director washes the body and shrouding is done. Then, a family member of the dead person puts uncooked rice in the mouth of the body. This step does not have to be done if the family has a certain religion. After putting the rice in the mouth, the body is moved into a coffin. Family members, including close relatives, of the dead person will wear mourning clothing. Typically, mourning for a woman includes Korean traditional clothes, [[Hanbok]], and mourning for man includes a suit. The color has to be black. The ritual ceremony begins when they are done with changing clothes and preparing foods for the dead person. The ritual ceremony is different depending on their religion. After the ritual ceremony family members will start to greet guests.<ref>{{Cite journal|first=Kwang Kyu |last=Lee |year=1984 |title=The Concept of Ancestors and Ancestor Worship in Korea |journal=  Asian Folklore Studies|volume=43 |issue=2 |pages=199–214 |issn=0385-2342 |doi=10.2307/1178009|jstor=1178009 }}</ref>

On the third day, the family decides whether to bury the body in the ground or cremate the body. In the case of burial, three family members sprinkle dirt on the coffin three times. In the case of cremation, there is no specific ritual; the only requirement is a jar to store [[Cremains|burned bones]] and a place to keep the jar.

Other than these facts, in Korea, people who come to the funeral bring condolence money. Also, a food called [[Yukgaejang]] is served to guests, oftentimes with the Korean [[distilled drink]] called [[soju]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.seoulsite.com/survival-faq/a-korean-funeral/|title=Seoul Site|website=Seoul Site|access-date=2017-04-03|archivedate=2017-05-05|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20170505195423/http://www.seoulsite.com/survival-faq/a-korean-funeral/|url-status=usurped}}</ref>

===In Mongolia===
In Mongolia, like many other cultures, funeral practices are considered extremely important.{{citation needed|date=March 2025}}, possessing significant elements of both native Mongolian rituals and Buddhist tradition.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://buddhistdeathrituals.blogspot.com/2010/05/mongolian-death-rituals.html|title=Buddhist Death Rituals: Mongolian Death Rituals|last=Stephen|date=2010-05-01|website=Buddhist Death Rituals|access-date=2017-04-03}}</ref>

For Mongolians who are very strict about tradition, families choose from three different ways of burial: open-air burial which is most common, cremation, and embalming. Many factors go into deciding which funeral practice to do. These consisted of the family's social standing, the cause of death, and the place of death. Embalming was mainly chosen by members of the Lamaistic Church; by choosing this practice, they are usually buried in a sitting position. This would show that they would always be in the position of prayer. Also, more important people such as nobles would be buried with weapons, horses and food in their coffins to help them prepare for the next world.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.welcome2mongolia.com/archives/mongolian-practice-of-burial/|title=Mongolian practice of burial|website=www.welcome2mongolia.com|language=en-US|access-date=2017-04-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170404130604/http://www.welcome2mongolia.com/archives/mongolian-practice-of-burial/|archive-date=2017-04-04|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The coffin is designed and built by three to four relatives, mainly men. The builders bring planks to the hut where the dead is located and put together the box and the lid. The same people who build the coffin also decorate the funeral. Most of this work is done after dusk. With specific instruction, they work on decorations inside the youngest daughter's house. The reason for this is so the deceased is not disturbed at night.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://materialreligions.blogspot.com/2015/04/objects-and-substances-of-funeral.html|title=Objects and Substances of Funeral Mediation in Mongolia: Coffin, Miniature Yurt and Food Offerings|date=2015-04-08|website=Objects and Substances of Funeral Mediation in Mongolia|access-date=2017-04-03}}</ref>

===In Vietnam===
[[File:Cảnh đoàn rước đám tang thời nhà Lê trung hưng năm 1684-1685. - The manner of their funeral pomp.png|thumb|The scene of the funeral procession during the Revival Lê dynasty in 1684-1685]] 
[[File:Cờ long tinh tại lễ an táng Hoàng đế Khải Định (1925) , đoàn quan chức.jpg|thumb|Emperor Khải Định's funeral]]
In Vietnam, [[Buddhism]] is the most commonly practiced religion, however, most burial methods do not coincide with the Buddhist belief of [[cremation]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=http://vietnamreporter.com.au/burying-the-dead-in-vietnam/|title=Burying the dead in Vietnam {{!}} Vietnam Reporter|website=vietnamreporter.com.au|language=en-US|access-date=2017-04-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170405170221/http://vietnamreporter.com.au/burying-the-dead-in-vietnam/|archive-date=2017-04-05|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The body of the deceased is moved to a loved one's house and placed in an expensive coffin. The body usually stays there for about three days, allowing time for people to visit and place gifts in the mouth.<ref name=":1" /> This stems from the Vietnamese belief that the dead should be surrounded by their family. This belief goes so far as to include superstition as well. If somebody is dying in Vietnamese culture, they are rushed home from the hospital so they can die there, because if they die away from home it is believed to be bad luck to take a corpse home.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://offroadvietnam.com/vietnam-info/customs-and-rites/funerals|title=Funerals. Important Traditions, Customs – Offroad Vietnam Adventures|work=Offroad Vietnam Adventures|access-date=2017-04-03|language=en-US}}</ref>

Many services are also held in the Vietnamese burial practices. One is held before moving the coffin from the home and the other is held at the burial site.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|url=https://ethnomed.org/clinical/end-of-life/death-in-viet|title=Death Rituals in Vietnamese Society – EthnoMed|website=ethnomed.org|language=en|access-date=2017-04-03}}</ref> After the burial of the loved one, incense is burned at the gravesite and respect is paid to all the nearby graves. Following this, the family and friends return to the home and enjoy a feast to celebrate the life of the recently departed.<ref name=":2" /> Even after the deceased has been buried, the respect and honor continues. For the first 49 days after the burying, the family holds a memorial service every 7 days, where the family and friends come back together to celebrate the life of their loved one. After this, they meet again on the 100th day after the death, then 265 days after the death, and finally they meet on the anniversary of the death of their loved one, a whole year later, to continue to celebrate the glorious life of their recently departed.<ref name=":3" />

The Vietnamese funeral, or đám giỗ, is a less somber occasion than most traditional Western funerals. The đám giỗ is a celebration of the deceased's life and is centered around the deceased's family.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Filek-Gibson |first1=Dana |title=Vietnamese Funeral Rituals |url=https://www.moon.com/travel/arts-culture/vietnamese-funeral-rituals/ |website=Moon |date=18 December 2015 |access-date=27 January 2023}}</ref>

Family members might wear a traditional garment called a mourning headband to signify their relationship with the deceased. Typical mourning headbands are thin strips of fabric that are wrapped around the wearer's head. Traditionally, the deceased's closest family members, such as children, siblings, spouses, and parents will wear white mourning headbands. More distant family members' headband colors may vary. In some cultures, the deceased's nieces, nephews, or grandchildren may be required to wear white headbands with red dots. Other societies may encourage grandchildren to wear white headbands with blue dots. Fourth generation grandchildren often wear yellow mourning headbands.

The use of mourning headbands emphasizes the importance of personal and familial roles in Vietnamese society. It also allows funeral attendants to carefully choose their interactions and offer condolences to those closest to the deceased.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bich |first1=Ha |title=Top 6 Things About Vietnamese Funerals to Know |url=https://vietnamtrips.com/vietnamese-funerals#vietnamese-funeral-headband |website=Vietnam Trips |access-date=27 January 2023}}</ref>

Traditionally, attendants of a Vietnamese funeral service are encouraged to wear the color white. In many East Asian cultures, white is viewed as a sign of loss and mourning. In Vietnam, members of the Caodaist faith believe that white represents purity and the ability to communicate beyond spiritual worlds.<ref>{{cite journal |last1=Zhu Shuai |first1=Shua |last2=Jammes |first2=Jérémy |title=The Cao Đài Deathscape: Reimagining Death, Funerals, and Salvation in Contemporary Vietnam |journal=Religions |date=2020 |volume=11 |issue=6 |page=20 |doi=10.3390/rel11060280 |doi-access=free }}</ref>

==African funerals==
[[File:The corpse is dressed and carried by a blacksmith. Kapsiki.jpg|thumb|Funerary dance ritual. A blacksmith carries the dressed body. Kapsiki people, North Cameroon.]]

===Ancient Egypt===
{{main|Ancient Egyptian funerary practices}}

===West African===
African funerals are usually open to many visitors. The custom of burying the dead in the floor of dwelling-houses has been to some degree prevalent on the [[Gold Coast (region)|Gold Coast]] of Africa. The ceremony depends on the traditions of the ethnicity the deceased belonged to. The funeral may last for as much as a week. Another custom, a kind of memorial, frequently takes place seven years after the person's death. These funerals and especially the memorials may be extremely expensive for the family in question. Cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry, may be offered and then consumed.

[[Ashanti people|The Ashanti]] and [[Akan people|Akan]] ethnic groups in Ghana typically wear red and black during funerals. For special family members, there is typically a funeral celebration with singing and dancing to honor the life of the deceased. Afterwards, the Akan hold a sombre funeral procession and burial with intense displays of sorrow. Other funerals in Ghana are held with the deceased put in elaborate [[Fantasy coffins]] colored and shaped after a certain object, such as a fish, crab, boat, and even airplanes.<ref name=":3">{{cite web|url=http://www.a-to-z-of-manners-and-etiquette.com/funeral-and-religious-customs.html |title=Funeral and Religious Customs |publisher=A-to-z-of-manners-and-etiquette.com |date=1936-01-10 |access-date=2013-05-21}}</ref> The [[Kane Kwei Carpentry Workshop]] in [[Teshie]], named after Seth Kane Kwei who invented this new style of coffin, has become an international reference for this form of art.

====Funeral practices of the Dagbamba====
{{main|Funerals in Dagbaŋ}}

===East African===
Evidence of Africa's earliest funeral was found in Kenya in 2021. A 78,000 year old [[Middle Stone Age]] grave of a three-year-old child was discovered in [[Panga ya Saidi]] cave complex, Kenya. Researchers said the child's head appeared to have been laid on a pillow. The body had been laid in a fetal position.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gill|first=Victoria|date=5 May 2021|title=Ancient child grave was Africa's earliest funeral|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-56986457|access-date=5 May 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|last=Sample|first=Ian|date=5 May 2021|title=Archaeologists uncover oldest human burial in Africa|url=http://www.theguardian.com/science/2021/may/05/archaeologists-uncover-oldest-human-burial-in-africa|access-date=5 May 2021|website=The Guardian|language=en}}</ref>

In Kenya funerals are an expensive undertaking. Keeping bodies in morgues to allow for fund raising is a common occurrence more so in urban areas. Some families opt to bury their dead in the countryside homes instead of urban cemeteries, thus spending more money on transporting the dead.

==Historical mausoleums==
===China===
====Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor====
{{main|Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor}}
[[File:Terra Cotta army.jpg|thumb|right|Terracotta warriors of Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum]]

The first emperor of the Qin dynasty, [[Qin Shi Huang]]'s mausoleum is located in the [[Lintong District]] of [[Xi'an]], [[Shaanxi]] Province. Qin Shi Huang's tomb is one of the World Heritage sites in China. Its remarkable feature and size have been known as one of the most important historical sites in China.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Ma|first1=Ying|last2=Fuller|first2=Benjamin T.|last3=Sun|first3=Weigang|last4=Hu|first4=Songmei|last5=Chen|first5=Liang|last6=Hu|first6=Yaowu|last7=Richards|first7=Michael P.|title=Tracing the locality of prisoners and workers at the Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang: First Emperor of China (259–210 BCE)|journal=Scientific Reports|year=2016|volume=6|article-number=26731|doi=10.1038/srep26731|pmid=27253909|pmc=4890548|bibcode=2016NatSR...626731M|language=en|doi-access=free}}</ref> Qin Shi Huang is the first emperor who united China for the first time. The mausoleum was built in 247 BCE after he became the emperor of the [[Qin dynasty]].

Ancient Chinese [[mausoleum]]s have unique characteristics compared to other cultures[citation?]. Ancient Chinese thought that the soul remains even after death, (immortal soul) regarded funeral practices as an important tradition.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Li|first1=Shuang|title=The funeral and Chinese culture|date=1993|publisher=Bowling Green State University|pages=113–120}}</ref> From their long history, the construction of mausoleums has developed over time, creating monumental and massive ancient emperor's [[tomb]].

Archeologists have found more than 8,000 life-sized figures resembling an army surrounding the emperor's tomb.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Liu|first1=Nelson H. S.|first2=Charles Y.|last2=Liu|first3=Veronica|last3=Pagán|title=The Terra Cotta Army of Qin Shi Huang|year=2011|volume=75|issue=3–4|journal=World Neurosurgery|pages=352–353|doi=10.1016/j.wneu.2011.02.028|pmid=21600463}}</ref> The primary purpose of the placement of [[Terracotta Army]] is to protect the emperor's tomb. The figures were composed of clay and fragments of pottery. The Terracotta Army represents soldiers, horses, government officials, and even musicians. The arrangement and the weapons they are carrying accurately represent the real formations and weapons of the time. Furthermore, facial features aren't identical, each sculpture bearing a unique look.

====Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties====
{{main|Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties}}
[[File:Ming Dynasty Tomb.jpg|thumb|Ming tomb in Beijing, China]]

The Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties are included as [[World Heritage Sites]]. The three Imperial Tombs of the Qin dynasty were added in 2000 and 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1004|title=Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties|first=UNESCO World Heritage|last=Centre|website=whc.unesco.org}}</ref> The three tombs were all built in the 17th century. The tombs have been constructed to memorialize the emperors of the [[Qing dynasty]] and their ancestors. In tradition, Chinese have followed [[Feng Shui]] to build and decorate the interior. All of the tombs are strictly made following the superstition of Feng Shui.

The Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties clearly show the cultural and architectural tradition that has existed in the area for more than 500 years[citation?]. In Chinese culture, the tombs were considered as a portal between the world of the living and the dead[citation?]. Chinese believed that the portal would divide the soul into two parts. The half of the soul would go to heaven, and the other half would remain within the physical body.<ref>Johnson, Mark M. "Imperial Tombs of China." Arts and Activities 119.4 (1996): 22. ProQuest. Web. 23 Apr. 2017.</ref>

==Mutes and professional mourners<!-- 'Mute (death customs)' redirects here -->==
{{further|Professional mourning}}
From about 1600 to 1914 Europe had two [[profession]]s that have almost entirely disappeared. The '''mute''' appears in art quite frequently, but in literature is probably best known from [[Charles Dickens|Dickens]]'s ''[[Oliver Twist]]'' (1837–1839). [[Oliver Twist (character)|Oliver]] is working for [[Mr Sowerberry]] when characterised thus: "There's an expression of melancholy in his face, my dear... which is very interesting. He would make a delightful mute, my love." And in ''[[Martin Chuzzlewit]]'' (1842–1844), Moult, the undertaker, states: "This promises to be one of the most impressive funerals,...no limitation of expense...I have orders to put on my whole establishment of mutes, and mutes come very dear, Mr Pecksniff".

The main function of a funeral mute was to stand around at funerals with a sad, pathetic face. A symbolic protector of the deceased, the mute would usually stand near the door of the home or church. In Victorian times, mutes would wear somber clothing including black cloaks, top hats with trailing hatbands, and gloves.<ref name="Puckle">Bertram S. Puckle, ''Funeral Customs: Their Origin and Development'' (London: T. W. Laurie, ltd., 1926) p. 66.</ref>

The [[professional mourner]], generally a woman, would shriek and wail (often while clawing her face and tearing at her clothing), to encourage others to weep. Records document forms of [[professional mourning]] from Ancient Greece.<ref name="Wilson2013">{{cite book|author= Nigel Wilson|title=Encyclopedia of Ancient Greece |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=8pXhAQAAQBAJ&pg=PA135|year= 2013|publisher=Routledge|isbn=978-1136788000 |page=135}}</ref><ref name="BlundellBlundell1995">{{cite book|author1=Sue Blundell|author2=Susan Blundell |title= Women in Ancient Greece|url=https://archive.org/details/womeninancientgr00blun|url-access= registration|year=1995|publisher=Harvard University Press|isbn=978-0674954731|page=[https://archive.org/details/womeninancientgr00blun/page/85 85]}}</ref> The 2003 award-winning Philippine comedy ''Crying Ladies'' revolves around the lives of three women who are part-time professional mourners for the Chinese-Filipino community in [[Binondo|Manila's Chinatown]]. According to the film, the Chinese use professional mourners to help expedite the entry of a deceased loved one's soul into heaven by giving the impression that he or she was a good and loving person, well-loved by many.

==State funeral==
{{main|State funeral}}
High-ranking national figures such as heads of state, prominent politicians, military figures, national heroes and eminent cultural figures may be offered [[state funeral]]s.

==Final disposition==
{{Main|Disposal of human corpses}}

Common methods of disposal are:
* [[Burial]] of the entire body in a [[cemetery]], often within a [[coffin]] or casket (also referred to as ''inhumation'' or ''interment'')
* Permanent storage in an above-ground [[tomb]] or [[mausoleum]] (also referred to as ''immurement'')
* [[Cremation]], which burns soft tissue and renders much of the skeleton to ash. The remains may contain larger pieces of bone which are ground in a machine to the consistency of ash. The ashes are commonly stored in an [[Urn#Cremation urns|urn]], or scattered on land or water especially in a cemetery's scattering garden or as part of its memorial benches.
* Urn interment, urn burial, inurnment or interment of ashes, an urn can be placed inside a [[columbarium]] at a cemetery.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.columbariumusa.com/columbarium-its-more-than-just-a-resting-place/ | title=Columbariums & Monuments &#124; Special Places - Columbarium Blog &#124; Columbarium USA | date=24 February 2016 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/blog/what-is-a-columbarium|title=What Is A Columbarium? &#124; A Guide To Columbariums|website=Funeral Guide}}</ref> An urn can additionally be buried in a traditional cemetery plot similar to a casket.<ref>{{cite web | title=Everything to Know About the Interment of Ashes &#124; Neptune Society | url=https://neptunesociety.com/resources/celebration-of-life-planning/everything-to-know-about-interment-of-ashes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Interment of ashes: A complete guide | url=https://www.purecremation.co.uk/articles/interment-of-ashes }}</ref>
*[[Water cremation]], a solutional process of using water and potassium hydroxide to accelerately break down a body into bone fragments as well as sterile liquid.<ref>{{cite web | title=Alkaline Hydrolysis | url=https://www.cremationassociation.org/alkalinehydrolysis.html }}</ref> (also known as ''alkaline hydrolysis'')

==Self-planned funerals==
{{Globalize|section|USA|2name=the United States|date=April 2016}}
Some people choose to make their funeral arrangements in advance so that at the time of their death, their wishes are known to their family. However, the extent to which decisions regarding the disposition of a decedent's remains (including funeral arrangements) can be controlled by the decedent while still alive vary from one jurisdiction to another. In the United States, there are states which allow one to make these decisions for oneself if desired, for example by appointing an agent to carry out one's wishes; in other states, the law allows the decedent's next-of-kin to make the final decisions about the funeral without taking the wishes of the decedent into account.<ref>[http://www.qeepr.com/blog/who-has-the-right-to-make-decisions-about-your-funeral/ Who Has the Right to Make Decisions About Your Funeral?], ''qeepr.com'', February 5, 2014.</ref>

The decedent may, in most U.S. jurisdictions, provide instructions as to the funeral by means of a last will and testament. These instructions can be given some legal effect if bequests are made contingent on the heirs carrying them out, with alternative gifts if they are not followed. This requires the will to become available in time; aspects of the disposition of the remains of US President [[Franklin Delano Roosevelt]] ran contrary to a number of his stated wishes, which were found in a safe that was not opened until after the funeral.

==Organ donation and body donation==
Some people [[Body donation|donate their bodies]] to a [[medical school]] for use in research or education. Medical students frequently study anatomy from donated cadavers; they are also useful in forensic research.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hta.gov.uk/about_hta/faqs/body_donation_faqs.cfm|publisher=UK [[Human Tissue Authority]]|title=Body Donation FAQs|access-date=2016-06-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090414164827/http://www.hta.gov.uk/about_hta/faqs/body_donation_faqs.cfm|archive-date=2009-04-14|url-status=dead}}</ref> Some medical conditions, such as amputations or various surgeries can make the cadaver unsuitable for these purposes; in other cases the bodies of people who had certain medical conditions are useful for research into those conditions. Many medical schools rely on the donation of cadavers for the teaching of anatomy.<ref>{{cite book |last=Roach |first=Mary |title=Stiff: The Curious Lives Of Human Cadavers |publisher=Penguin |isbn=978-0141007458 |id= {{ASIN|0141007451|country=uk}} |year=2004 }}</ref> It is also possible to arrange for [[Organ donation|donate organs]] and [[Tissue donation|tissue]] after death for treating the sick, or even whole cadavers for forensic research at [[body farm]]s.

==See also==
* [[Burial]]
* [[Dead bell]]
* [[Eulogy]]
* [[Funerary art]]
* [[Homo naledi]]
* [[Institute of Civil Funerals]]
* [[List of funerals]]
* [[Wake (ceremony)]]
* [[Repast (funeral)]]
{{Clear}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==Further reading==
*{{cite book |last=Kornbluth |first=Doron |title=Cremation or Burial? A Jewish View |year=2012 |publisher=Mosaica Press  | url=https://mosaicapress.com/product/cremation-or-burial/}}
* Akyel, Dominic. [https://web.archive.org/web/20130509203320/http://welfare-societies.com/uploads/file/WelfareSocietiesConferencePaper-No1_Schimank_Volkmann.pdf ''From Detraditionalization to Price-consciousness: The Economization of Funeral Consumption in Germany'']. In Uwe Schimank and Ute Volkmann (ed.) The Marketization of Society: Economizing the Non-Economic. Bremen: Research Cluster "Welfare Societies", 2012, pp.&nbsp;105–124.
* Hoy, William G. (2013). ''[https://www.amazon.com/Do-Funerals-Matter-Practices-Perspective/dp/0415662052/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1441623705&sr=8-1&keywords=hoy+do+funerals+matter&pebp=1441623698245&perid=0XKDGA79ZZPP2M9J8XRQ Do Funerals Matter? The Purposes and Practices of Death Rituals in Global Perspective].'' New York: Routledge.
* {{Cite book|last= Iserson |first= Kenneth V. |title= Death to Dust: What Happens to Dead Bodies? |year =1994| place=Tucson, AZ |publisher =Galen Press, Ltd. }}
* Long, Thomas G. (2009). ''Accompany Them with Singing: The Christian Funeral''. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press.
* {{cite book |last=Roach |first=Mary |title=Stiff: The Curious Lives Of Human Cadavers |publisher=Penguin |isbn=978-0141007458 |id= {{ASIN|0141007451|country=uk}} |year=2004 }}
* {{cite book |last=Wilson |first=Jane Wynne |title=Funerals Without God: A practical guide to humanist and non-religious funeral ceremonies|date=30 October 2014 |url=https://www.amazon.com/Funerals-Without-God-non-religious-ceremonies-ebook/dp/B00P2ZRS30/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1469636151&sr=8-3&keywords=non+religious+funerals#nav-subnav |publisher=British Humanist Association |asin=B00P2ZRS30 }}

==External links==
{{wiktionary|funeral}}
{{Wikiquote}}
* {{Commons-inline}}

{{Death}}

{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Ceremonies]]
[[Category:Funeral-related industry]]
[[Category:Funerals| ]]