Buddhist practices
Mindfulness in death. Chanting. Merit-making.
Buddhist approaches to death vary widely across traditions (Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan, Zen), but share a common emphasis on mindfulness, compassion, and the nature of impermanence.
Common threads
- Chanting — monks or nuns may chant sutras at the bedside or at the funeral
- Merit-making — acts of generosity (dana) performed on behalf of the deceased
- Cremation — common in most Buddhist traditions
- Mourning period — typically 49 days in many traditions (the journey between death and rebirth)
- Mindfulness — awareness of death as a natural part of life; not to be feared
- Altar offerings — incense, flowers, food placed at a home altar
In Australia
Buddhist temples across Australia can help with funeral rites. Practices vary widely depending on the cultural community (Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, Tibetan, Sri Lankan, Japanese). Contact the temple your family is connected to, or the Federation of Australian Buddhist Councils.
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From bluetulipco.com/library/grief/buddhist — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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