Death is a force that impacts every living thing on the planet. For human beings, there are countless customs and rituals associated with grieving the deceased. Though you may have been to a number of funerals in your time, you might not know the proper protocol when a person of a specific religious background passes away. Whether this person was Hindu, Catholic, or Muslim, it can be useful to know a few basic points in advance so that you avoid causing offense when expressing condolences. 

Review this information on the world’s most popular religions and their associated funeral customs. Though a generalized guide, these details can highlight how to best go about paying your respects. 

Christianity

There are a number of religions that fall under the broad categorization of Christianity. While there are key differences between how Protestants, Roman Catholics, Presbyterians, and Episcopalians go about funeral rites, there are also a handful of similarities. For example, most people will send a card, flowers, or a charitable donation to the family of the deceased. To aid the bereaved during this period, it is commonplace for family, friends, and neighbors to make and deliver meals.

In the past, it was traditional for guests at a funeral to wear black or somber tones. Nowadays, however, people are a bit more casual with this. While one should still dress in professional attire, there is no need to be all in black at the event.

Judaism 

In the Jewish faith, there is a period of mourning known as “shiva” that follows the burial of the deceased. It typically lasts about a week in duration, and during this period, the family and friends of the deceased take care of the bereaved. They will come to the house and clean, cook meals, run errands, and do whatever needs to be done so that the family can focus on mourning. Food, specifically kosher items, are commonplace gifts during shiva. However, it should be noted that flowers are not considered an acceptable gesture. 

Islam

Flowers are also considered inappropriate when someone passes away in the Islamic faith. While the specific reasons for why this is vary from culture to culture, the general idea is that funerals should be simplistic and flowers can prove showy. Instead, those wishing to show their respects should consider sending food to the family of the departed. As with Christians, there are key differences between the different orders of this religion. To know exactly how to respond when someone passes away, consult with local religious leaders to gain some perspective. 

Buddhism

Though flowers might not be acceptable for some religions, Buddhism encourages sending blossoms as a way of mourning. Specifically, white flowers are considered an acceptable and beautiful way of expressing oneself during a time of loss. Conversely, flowers that are in shades of red are inappropriate. Scented candles and incense are also an important component in many Buddhist funeral rites, meaning that you may wish to consider gifting a small item in this category as a gesture of kindness. Charitable donations and gifts of food are also good ways to show your respect.

Hinduism

In Hinduism, the most common way a body is handled upon death is cremation. Once the body has been cremated, the funeral service is held within a day. During the services, it is not commonplace for people to exchange expressions of sorrow. Instead, silence is viewed as the most respectful way to mourn. Similarly, there is no need to bring gifts or send flowers. Garlands are typically handed out during the ceremony. Another gathering is held about 10 days after the cremation, where food can be brought to family members as a way of showing respect.

Though death is a topic that impacts everyone, the way people handle saying goodbye is different from culture to culture. By learning more about the rituals and traditions, you will have a better idea of how to express your condolences in a respectful manner.