Throughout history, funeral services have been deeply rooted in tradition and ritual, representing the beliefs and customs of various cultures. In Singapore, where many cultures meet, the following superstitions still dominate how families conduct a funeral service in Singapore. Most of them are aimed at the transition of the deceased to peace and avoid evil influences on the living. We will discuss seven superstitious beliefs about funeral services in Singapore and give more insight into their importance and the respect they get in local customs.

1. Mirrors Must Be Covered

One of the more common superstitions is covering mirrors during funeral services to prevent the entry of spirits into the world through them. Looking in the mirror during a funeral brings bad luck or even death. Covering the mirrors helps protect the mourners and keeps the event centred on honouring the deceased.

2. The Direction of the Coffin Matters

Positioning a coffin during funeral services has immense symbolic value. Superstition dictates that the coffin must never face the main door of the home since that may bring bad luck to the household. It is positioned to go in harmony with traditional beliefs on energy and harmony. Such an act shows care and thought in creating a respectful environment for the deceased and their family.

3. Avoiding Black and Red Together

The colours used at funeral services in Singapore carry deep symbolic meaning. Black, a colour associated with mourning, is commonly worn at funerals. However, black blended with red is avoided. Red is celebrated in many Asian cultures for happiness and glee. Mixing these colours in a funeral service in Singapore creates disharmony, as the solemnity of this gathering cannot be served. These practices manifest the cultural values of propriety and respect in times of grief.

4. Wake the Dead to Avoid Loneliness

Family members and close friends sometimes tend to spend extended periods gathering around the dead body in the course of wakes. According to superstitious beliefs, if a deceased person remains alone, they may perceive loneliness and unhappiness as if living. These people showing affection by spending time closer to the deceased is a gesture. In this tradition, while following superstitions, people bond with their families trying to display love before the departed individual.

5. Refrain from Taking Funeral Flowers to the House

Flowers are indeed part of funeral rites. They symbolize respect, honour, and memory (which is why many would offer them during the service). It has also been an unspoken tradition that flowers from a funeral rite should not be brought home since bringing these might bring evil influence attached to death. That tradition maintains peace in the household among other members.

6. Meaning of Paper Offerings

Paper offerings, including houses, clothing, and money, are commonly burned during the funeral process in Singapore. This act provides the deceased with essential items in the afterlife. It is thought that the smoke carries these offerings to the spirit world, ensuring the deceased is well-equipped. This practice reflects a deep sense of care and responsibility for families of their departed loved ones, transcending the physical world.

7. Avoiding Certain Words and Numbers

Words that bring finality or endings are avoided in the conversation as they bring bad luck. Similarly, numbers that bring bad luck, such as the number four, which sounds like the word for “death” in Mandarin, are excluded from rituals and arrangements. These customs reflect the sensitivity surrounding language and symbolism to ensure every aspect of the service honours the deceased.

Superstitions in funerals in Singapore are much more than mere traditions: respect and the desire to ensure that the souls carried away will have an excellent journey. The colour and wear of the mourners also depend on the beliefs surrounding such actions. In understanding and respecting these practices, the families preserve a legacy of respect and continuity during the most profound loss.

The traditions surrounding funeral services show understanding and sensitivity. To make sure that your loved one leaves behind a dignified and meaningful farewell, call Casket Fairprice now.