Jain Funeral Procedures

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

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have to be respected and followed accordingly. In such a situations, viewing may be arranged with a closed casket (containing remaining parts) or open casket. Later the body may be donated for educational purposes instead of taking it for cremation.
FOOD AFTER THE FUNERAL (Optional)
Provide food for attendees if funeral home's time permits or ask everyone to go to a location where food will be served. This may provide some comfort and consolation to the family. Serving food to the funeral guests is an American custom.
Sample Menu
Pasta Spaghetti, Macaroni etc. (Egg less)
Rice, vegetable curry, Chick pea, etc.
Tossed green salad
Drink - Coke, Diet Coke, Water, etc.
Dinner plates, cups, spoons, glasses, serving spoons etc. Food may be ordered from the local grocery store or from an Indian restaurant.
Note: As much as possible, food/vegetables grown underground and serving the food at night should be avoided VISITORS' CARE
Few visitors may be expected to attend the funeral from out of town. The body is usually not kept at home. The visitors may come to the home of the deceased for snacks, breakfast, lunch, dinner etc., depending on the need.
Members from the community may volunteer to cook the food for the guests at the home of deceased or bring it from their home. Alternatively, buy catered food like rice, vegetables, chick pea soup, whole wheat flour bread, milk, tea bags, coffee, sugar, etc. and bring to the home of deceased. If necessary, buy paper products such as dinner plates, paper cups, spoons and napkins.
EXPENSES
In an event like this, do not bother the family of the deceased for petty expenses. For expenses such as buying food, necessary accessories like dhoop flowers etc., keep receipts and turn it over to the lead person or the members of the immediate family of the deceased person for reimbursement. If necessary the Jain Center may provide reimbursement to the members who have incurred the expenses. Larger expenses like funeral home cost etc. are paid by credit card and/or personal check of the deceased family or very close friends. However, if necessary the community may have to pitch in to help.
BANK ACCOUNTS, WILL, SAFE DEPOSIT, AND OTHER LEGAL METTERS
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