Significance of Last rites
Last rites is a term that encompasses various ceremonial acts performed in honor of the deceased across multiple traditions, including Jainism, Vaishnavism, Purana, Dharmashastra, Mahayana, and Theravada. These rites symbolize respect and remembrance, ensuring the spiritual well-being and transition of the deceased to the afterlife. They involve rituals and offerings tailored to honor the individual's memory, like those performed for Dashanana, Lakshmi, and other figures, highlighting the cultural significance of mourning and reverence for those who have passed away.
Synonyms: Final rites
In Dutch: Laatste sacramenten; In Finnish: Viimeiset rituaalit
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Last rites'
In Buddhism, Last rites encompass final rituals at death, formal ceremonies honoring the Tathagata post-death, and activities following the Buddha's cremation to safeguard his relics, emphasizing respect and spiritual significance.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Ceremonial activities performed after the Buddha's cremation, involving preparations for honoring his relics and ensuring their security.[1] (2) The formal ceremonies and procedures performed in honor of the Tathagata after death.[2]
From: Mahayana Mahaparinirvana Sutra
(1) Final rituals performed, usually at the time of death or a significant spiritual event.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Last rites'
In Hinduism, Last rites encompass ceremonial practices honoring the deceased, performed with respect and tradition. These rituals, crucial for ensuring peaceful transitions to the afterlife, involve family and community participation with specific duties assigned based on seniority.
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Final ceremonies performed for the deceased to ensure their spiritual well-being and transition to the afterlife.[4] (2) The king orders the last rites for the slain Sutas to be performed, signifying respect for the dead.[5] (3) Religious ceremonies performed in honor of the deceased, which the Sudra-turned-prince performed for his father.[6] (4) The funerary practices performed per the order of seniority for the deceased, signifying respect and tradition.[7] (5) The final honors and ceremonies performed for the deceased, demonstrating respect and remembrance.[8]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) The final religious ceremonies performed for the deceased to ensure their peaceful transition to the afterlife.[9] (2) The ceremonial acts that Bharata vows to perform for his deceased father, highlighting his duty and respect.[10] (3) The final ceremonial acts performed to honor the deceased Bali, which Sugriva is commanded to carry out at a riverbank.[11]
From: Chaitanya Bhagavata
(1) The final ceremonial rites performed for the deceased.[12] (2) Ceremonial practices performed in honor of someone who has passed away, which were executed by the devotees for Lakshmi.[13] (3) A ceremonial act or ritual performed for the child, typically associated with dying or the passage to another state of being.[14]
From: Apastamba Dharma-sutra
(1) Ceremonial acts performed for deceased individuals, particularly those who have conducted sacrifices.[15]
From: Vasistha Dharmasutra
(1) Final rituals performed for the deceased, which a twice-born man should perform carefully regarding suicides.[16]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) The ceremonial practices performed as a part of mourning and honoring the deceased.[17]
From: Harshacharita (socio-cultural Study)
(1) The final ceremonial acts performed for a deceased person, including rituals and offerings.[18]
Jain concept of 'Last rites'
In Jainism, Last rites signify the rituals conducted for Dashanana posthumously, celebrating his memory and valor, underscoring the importance of honoring revered figures and their contributions to Jain beliefs and values.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The rituals performed for Dashanana after his death, honoring his memory and his courageous life.[19]
The concept of Last rites in local and regional sources
Last rites encompass ceremonial practices that symbolize a final farewell for the deceased, holding cultural significance in mourning. Dr. Sridhar's preparations highlight the importance of these rituals in honoring loved ones.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The final ceremonial practices conducted for a deceased individual, which Dr. Sridhar had to prepare for.[20] (2) Ceremonies performed for a deceased individual, symbolizing the final farewell and cultural significance of mourning.[21]