Funerals are not just solemn events; they are also frequently enmeshed in superstitions passed down through the ages. Many practices that are automatically followed during a funeral might actually be rooted in age-old beliefs.
Here are some funeral superstitions common in SG funerals that you might be observing without even knowing.
Wearing Black or White Only
It is customary at local funerals for attendees to wear black or white clothing as a sign of mourning. However, many may not realise that this tradition stems from the superstition that bright colours, particularly red, attract spirits. In traditional Chinese belief, red symbolises happiness and vitality, which could confuse or offend spirits. As a result, avoiding bright colours is considered essential to maintaining the solemnity and spiritual peace of the event. Even if attendees are unconsciously aware of the superstition, following the black-or-white dress code upholds this deeply ingrained belief.
Avoiding the Use of Umbrellas During a Funeral Procession
Another common practice in funeral services is avoiding using umbrellas, especially black ones, during funeral processions unless it is raining heavily. Traditionally, it is believed that opening an umbrella unnecessarily during a funeral could attract wandering spirits to seek shelter under it and follow the living home. Many people comply with this unspoken rule without understanding its origin, reinforcing the pervasive influence of these superstitions on modern-day practices.
Not Bringing Young Children or Pregnant Women to Funerals
Families often discourage young children and pregnant women from attending funerals. This tradition stems from the belief that young children and unborn babies are more spiritually vulnerable and thus more susceptible to negative influences from the spirit world. Even today, many families automatically adhere to this superstition out of caution, preferring to minimise any potential risk, whether or not they believe in supernatural consequences.
Stepping Over Offerings or Incense
During funerals in Singapore, offerings such as food, incense, and paper money are placed around the funeral site. It is commonly advised never to step over these offerings. The superstition holds that disrespecting the offerings could anger spirits or bring bad luck to the individual. Mourners are often quietly guided around these items, ensuring respect is maintained, even if the mourners are unaware of the belief behind the action.
Avoiding Home Visits After Attending a Funeral
After attending a funeral service, it is customary to avoid visiting someone else’s home directly, especially if the person is not a close family member. The superstition suggests that funeral attendees may inadvertently bring negative energies or wandering spirits with them. Many locals observe the practice of heading straight home, changing clothes, and showering immediately after a funeral to cleanse themselves of any spiritual residue. This habit is so common that it has become an unspoken rule at local funerals, even among those who do not consider themselves superstitious.
Burning Clothes Worn at Funerals
In some traditional families, clothes worn during a funeral are burned after the event, especially if the deceased died in a violent or tragic manner. The belief is that spirits could linger on the clothes, and burning them ensures no lingering bad luck or spirits remain attached. While this practice is less commonly observed among the younger generation, it persists among more traditional households and serves as another example of superstition quietly shaping funeral behaviours.
Conclusion
While Singapore is a modern and multicultural society, many traditional funeral customs are still deeply influenced by ancient superstitions. These customs are intricately intertwined throughout SG funerals, frequently without conscious awareness, whether out of habit, respect, or sincere belief. Knowing these traditions can help maintain cultural sensitivity and show respect for the beliefs that continue to shape mourning rituals today.
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