Taoism

The funeral rituals of every religion are different yet they have their similarities. When one passes, the process always begins with preparation which often includes the washing of the body. The next step in the process is the funeral procession which is filled with many rituals of profound significance. And finally, the deceased is laid to rest. No matter the race or religion: the living carries out these rituals to help the dead rest in peace. Each ritual is crucial and holds significant meaning. Unfortunately, cultural heritage loss is inevitable. Over time, some practices have been overlooked or completely forgotten. The significance of each practice may have faded too.

Preparation of Body

Funeral procession

Burial/cremation

Religion

Scene of a Chinese funeral procession.jpg

Taoism

Hinduism

Islam

Religion

Taoism

Modern Taoist funeral rites are much simpler than the traditional ones. Generally, death is not discussed openly in the Toaist community. It is also possible for variations to the funeral preparation, depending on the wishes of the deceased. It is plausible that many rites have been forgotten because the living no longer practices them. Times have also changed and religious practises have changed accordingly. For example, in the past, only the women of the family, such as the daughters and daughters-in-law, were supposed to prepare the meal offerings for the deceased. Today, men prepare these offerings as well.

Singapore Traditional Taoist Funeral

2021

Video
32 min 18s

This video depicts the conduction of a traditional Taoist funeral rite, from the formal procedures involved, the proper set-up to whom one should contact.

Credit: Video from YouTube Channel “Follow Us”

Making of Chinese Paper Offerings

2019

Video
4 min 52s

The video shows the making of Chinese paper offerings. They are a crucial part of Taoism funerals to provide the deceased with enough clothes, money, house, etc, in the afterlife.

Credit: Video from Roots.sg

Scene of a Chinese Funeral Procession

Early 20th Century

Black and White Photograph
14 x 19.3 cm

Collection of National Museum of Singapore

The deceased's family is donned in sackcloths as a sign of filial piety. The hearse is accompanied by musicians, whose music is meant to ward off evil spirits.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Photograph of a funeral procession

19th Century

Black and White Photograph
45.3 x 58.5 cm

Collection of Peranakan Museum

This photograph that depicts the family of the departed Mrs Tan Bang Wan came from the collection of Botan House which was allegedly built by Tan Kim Tian, a merchant.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Funeral Hearse of Tan Jiak Kim

1917

Painted wood, lacquer and iron
417.5 x 325 x 163 cm

Collection of National Museum of Singapore

In the past, funerals for wealthy Peranakans were grand affairs. This was the hearse of Peranakan Chinese merchant and philanthropist, Tan Jiak Kim.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Chinese Coffin Cover

20th Century

Embroidery on satin silk
336 x 192 cm

Collection of Asian Civilisation Museum

This coffin cover has been embroidered with auspicious Chinese symbols like scenes from Er Shi Si Xiao (The Twenty-four Paragons of Filial Devotion). They represent filial piety.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg

Funery Gateway

Late 19th Century - Early 20th Century

Woodcarving
H395 x W260 x D43.6 cm

Collection of Asian Civilisation Museum

This wooden arch was brought out only during funerals to be placed in front of the coffin. It features carvings of figures which symbolise filial piety and the celestial realm.

Credit: Picture from Roots.sg