Traditional Chinese Funeral Customs

Even in modern Singapore, many traditional Chinese funeral practices remain meaningful, especially among Buddhist and Taoist families who value filial piety and believe the deceased can influence the fortunes of their descendants. Traditional Chinese Funeral Customs

• Casket sealing before sunset: The casket is sealed during daylight, as doing so after dark is believed to bring misfortune to surviving family members.

• Symbolic feeding: Family members touch food with chopsticks and gently bring it to the deceased’s lips to show gratitude and respect.

• Pearl on the lips: A pearl may be placed on the deceased’s lips to guide them in the afterlife and prevent them from speaking inappropriately before deities.

• “Shou Wei Qian” (手尾钱): Money in a red packet is placed in the deceased’s hands, later returned to the family to symbolise prosperity and blessings for future generations.

• “Zǐ Sūn Dīng” (子孙钉) is a traditional Chinese ritual item placed with the deceased to bless and protect their descendants, symbolizing the well-being and prosperity of future generations.

These customs combine respect, symbolism, and tradition to honour loved ones while supporting the well-being of their descendants.