TaoisM
Upon arrival, attendees should greet the family and let them know that they would like to pay respects to the departed. While offering incense to the departed, it is customary to bow three times. You may also notice a bunch of red thread on the table. Tie one loosely around your finger and discard it only after the funeral before you enter home. There may also be coins wrapped in red paper. You may take one but spend this money immediately. Some funerals may also provide blessed or holy water. There will be buckets of clean water with flowers floating on top. You may use the water to perform a simple cleanse before heading home. When departing, you should do so quietly. It is believed that saying goodbye would invite the deceased to visit your home. Nevertheless, it is respectful to leave a dignified event quietly.
HINDUISM
When one pays their respects to the deceased, incense is often lit and offered at most Hindu funerals. This practice may be accompanied by chants and the symbolic lighting of a fire.
Hindu funerals often open caskets and attendees are welcome to view the body. As the body is considered sacred during this process, attendees will pray over the body, present flowers and even touch the feet of the deceased to receive blessings. Non-Hindus may present flowers as well but need not say the prayers.
iSLAM
Attendees should ensure that they are not in the way of any preparations. Muslims may join in with prayers, while non-muslims may wait outside or stay to listen. A silent prayer, a simple farewell, or a moment of silence is appropriate to pay respects to the deceased.
Making A Living From Death | Sarah The Embalmer
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2020
Video
6 min 19 s​
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The embalming of the body is an important procedure for those who hold wakes before the funeral. Sarah Ang has embalmed over 3000 bodies in 7 years.
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Credit: Video from Youtube Channel "MOSG"
A Friend In Death: He Buries Singapore's Lonely Elderly Poor With No Family
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2019
Video
8 min 10 s​
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While we rarely attend funerals of a religion that is not ours, Lim Hang Chung is familiar with the practises of other religions and arranges funerals for those who can’t.
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Credit: Video from Channel News Asia Insider
Graphical Flow for Chinese Funerals in Singapore
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2014
Graphic/Infographic
15.8 x 22.4 cm
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Collection of Singapore Art Museum ​
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This “all you need to know” infographic discusses the proper etiquette to observe so that one who has never attended a Toaist would not feel so out of place.
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Credit: Picture from After Life Matters Singapore, by Victor Goh
