Death is a universal experience, but how we deal with it can differ depending on where we live. From Indianapolis, IN cremations to Nepal’s sky burial, here are six unique funeral traditions from around the world. Some traditions are solemn and sad, while others are more lighthearted and festive. No matter your personal beliefs, it is interesting to see how other cultures approach death and mourning. 

1. Indonesia: The Ngaben Ceremony 

One of the most unique funeral traditions comes from Indonesia, where the Ngaben ceremony still takes place. This ritual involves cremating the deceased's body and burying the ashes in a special grave. They first wrap the body in cloth and place it on a bamboo platform. Then, they set it on fire and leave it to burn. Once the cremation is complete, they gather ashes and bury them in a grave. 



2. Ireland: The Wake 

In Ireland, it is tradition to hold a wake for the deceased. It is typically a social gathering where family and friends can come together to share memories and support one another. The wake often takes place in the deceased's home, and it usually takes place the night before the funeral. Alcohol is typically served at these gatherings, as they believe it to help ease the pain of grief. 

3. Japan: The Bon Festival 

The Bon Festival is a Japanese Buddhist tradition that honors the dead. It takes place annually in the summer and lasts for three days. During this time, people visit the graves of their ancestors to clean them and offer prayers. They also bring food and flowers to place on the graves. On the festival's last day, everyone participates in a procession that carries lanterns and floats through the streets. 

4. China: Ghost Month 

The lunar calendar in China refers to the seventh month as Ghost Month. It is a time when they believe the spirits of the dead can return to their living world. During this month, people offer food and gifts to appease these ghosts. They also hold special ceremonies and avoid activities that might anger the spirits. 

5. Kenya: The Maasai Mara Funeral Ritual 

The Maasai people of Kenya have a unique funeral ritual that involves burying the deceased in a tree. They do this so the person's spirit can be closer to God. They first wrap the body in animal skins and then place it on a tree. They then fill the tree with dirt and build a platform around it so the family can sit and mourn. 

6. Nepal: Sky Burials 

In Nepal, Buddhist tradition dictates that the dead have a sky burial. It involves leaving the body out in the open so vultures can eat it. The family will typically wait nearby to ensure that the body gets completely consumed. They then gather the bones and bury them in a special grave.

Conclusion 

Death is a universally sad experience, but how we deal with it varies significantly from culture to culture. These five funeral traditions from around the world show just how diverse and unique these practices can be. From Indianapolis, IN cremations to tree burials in Kenya, each tradition has its own special way of honoring the dead.