In Lao, we respectfully call the funeral ceremony ເຮືອນດີ (Heuan Dee), which means “merit house.” The name honors the spiritual importance of the occasion, reminding us that a funeral is as much about giving and goodwill as it is about loss.
A Lao funeral is not only a time for mourning. It is also a moment to reflect, make merit, and respectfully guide loved ones on their spiritual journey.
The following customs reflect our strong sense of community, compassion, and reverence for life:
- We believe in reincarnation; the past away individual is often cremated;
- Males close to the deceased become monks & must shave their hair;
- Women close to the deceased wear all white, must put their hair up and must be presented in a natural stance (no makeup, jewelry, etc.);
- The funeral is held by Buddhist monks who lead specific chants and prayers;
- These monks and nuns must not touch each other during the ceremonial process Nuns should not interact with the other gender when in nun-hood;
- During the day of procession, a white robe is tied to the coffin of the deceased;
- The funeral can last various days (on average 3-5 days);
- The casket of the deceased is often decorated in a beautiful pavilion and then burned (this various however);
- At the last ceremonial day, Tak Baht takes place to give thanks to the Monks for their service;
- Yat Naam (water blessing) also occurs, where a scripture is recited lead by monks chanting. This followed by pouring water into a bowl/cup and then poured into the roots of a tree or plants for good blessings;
- Guests are expected to wear all black and can attend any day of the funeral to offer their condolences.
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