Jain Funeral Procedures

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

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Help the family of the deceased obtain appropriate money out of taxes and close safe deposit boxes. Close checking and savings account etc. so there is no tax or long-term restraint on the accounts. Help the family of the deceased obtain social security and other governmental benefits, life insurance money, auto titles transfers etc. If necessary, try to find an attorney who is an expert in these matters, particularly in probate procedures.
CONFLICTS
In case of conflicts due to the religious beliefs, practical situations and other social circumstances requiring mediation show love and care. Let the closest relative of the deceased's make decisions. Such a person could be the spouse, adult child, brothers or sisters.
CHARITY
Often time's people send checks and sympathy cards. A family member should collect all cards and checks and secure them. A family member should keep an account of all such checks. The checks are usually for charity or to help the family to defray the expenses. Most of the time people donate these to a religious charity of their choice. However, this is not the Jain Center's responsibility.
AFTER THE FUNERAL
The close family members and close friends who have handled the body, should not perform puja or participate in any religious ceremony at the temple alter (vedi in Gabhara) for three days. Any auspicious function or event like marriage in the close family or starting a new venture is postponed for a minimum of three days from the date of the death, or until the changing of the clothes ceremony is performed. There is also customary to have uthaavani, Terhravin, therefore people should consult their own elders to observe such customs.
The family of the deceased may want to have some religious Puja at their home or temple or at a rented hall. Help them arrange it. At the place of the puja they may wish to have some photo of deceased for memory. The family may want to distribute cassettes, religious book or other memorabilia. Guide the family in buying and distributing such articles.
Estimate the number of people who may be attending. This will help to estimate the cost of food and other items. The food may be prepared with the help of community volunteers by potluck or catered from an Indian restaurant.
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