Jain Funeral Procedures

Author(s): Tansukh J Salgia
Publisher: Tansukh J Salgia

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⚫ Others who want to say a few words
• Bhajan if time permits
Allow time for people to go around the casket, lay flowers, wreathes etc. A table or tables may be arranged near the casket for laying an offering to the deceased. This way the deceased is not covered with rice and flowers and everyone can take a last glimpse of the body. If necessary, form two lines one on right for ladies and the other on left the for gentlemen.
Note: For Jains, an independent Soul resides in each and every living things, therefore as much as possible try not to make use of live flowers
After the Eulogy and last rites are completed, the presider concludes the services with thanks to the audience for coming and their support. Also, this is the time for any other announcements, such as commemorative donation to a favorite charity, the family inviting people for some light refreshments after the services. The next part of the program is taking the body to the crematorium. This is the time for dispersal of the gathering and condolences to the family are appropriate.
Provide a last few moments to close family members before the casket is closed and the body is taken for cremation. After the casket is closed and the body is taken to the cremation room, "Jin naam Satya hay." "Jinwani Satya hay" "Arahant naam Satya hay"; 'Siddha naam Satya hay" should be chanted all the way to the cremation room. Male members of the family and close friends should assume the role of pallbearers up to the cremation room. Ladies and children should avoid accompanying the body.
PYRE BURNING
The casket or container is placed in the cremation chamber, where the temperature is raised to approximately 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure the body of deceased is placed in the funeral pyre. A close relative of the deceased gets to start the switch Some relatives may want to stay a little longer at this place or behind a glass window in an observation room for a little while.
If it is the desire of the family to have a Priest performs the last rites, it should be done before the body is placed in the cremation chamber. At this time Ghee, Agarbati/incense, sandalwood should be placed on the body. Shanti path should be recited as the body placed in the chamber and the switch is turned on.
Note: Some sad stories have been heard that instead of cremating the body, the funeral home removes the body through a back door and sells it for profit. Therefore, it is important that a few relatives and/or friends stay back and make sure the body is properly cremated.
Generally, Jains do not collect ashes, but if specifically desired then that is to be arranged. Determine who will provide the urn. Some funeral homes do provide an urn for a fee, but discuss this in advance.
Also, a most important aspect of the "Power of Attorney for Personal Care" provides for personal care instruction that includes organ donation. In such cases, the wishes of the deceased
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