Funeral Service

When a person approaches death, their attention should be gently guided towards God. Worldly matters and outward displays of grief should not disturb the peace of their final moments. As soon as the soul departs, the body should be bathed and dressed in clean clothing and taken respectfully to the funeral site.

Expressions of loud weeping, wailing, or other forms of demonstrative grief are discouraged.

Reflections – Bhagat Ravidas

“Why do you sleep so deeply? Awaken, O simple one.”

“He who gave you life also sustains you. He is the soul of all creation.”

“Let go of ‘me’ and ‘mine’ and worship Him with a pure heart.”

Reflections – Guru Nanak

“Many gather around you in times of fortune; but when misfortune arrives, they vanish and leave you alone.”

“Family and loved ones cling while you live, but when the breath leaves the body, they turn away.”

“Says Nanak: In the end, only God remains your true companion.”

Completion of Funeral Rites

As soon as practical, the family begins the reading of Holy Scriptures, continuing until the tenth day. Final prayers are offered for the soul, marking the formal close of the funeral ceremony.

Adapted from “Sikh Ceremonies” by Sir Jogendra Singh, Ludhiana.