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Death and Dying in Sikhism

Death is a natural part of life, and in Sikhism, it is seen as a journey rather than an end.

Sikh teachings, based on Guru Nanak and the ten Sikh Gurus, focus on the soul moving towards Waheguru (God) through transmigration and reincarnation.

What Sikhs Believe About Death

Sikhism teaches that life and death are part of God’s plan, and there is no need to fear death.

Sikhs focus on living a good and honest life by:

  • Working hard (kirat karni)
  • Helping others (seva)
  • And remembering God (naam japna).

Death is seen as the soul leaving the body and continuing its journey based on past actions (karma) and God’s will.

When a Sikh dies, family and community members come together to pray and support each other.

The Sikh funeral occurs as immediately after death as possible, called Antam Sanskar (final rites), includes the singing of hymns (shabads) from the Guru Granth Sahib (the Sikh holy book) to bring comfort.

Before the funeral service, the body of the deceased is washed and dressed. Sikhs believe that the purpose of the physical body is to house the soul and thus cremation is preferred, as it represents the soul’s release.

To commemorate loved ones, the ashes are usually scattered in a river or nature or place of significance, symbolising the body returning to the earth.

Regarding what to wear, it is funeral etiquette to wear smart but modest clothing with head coverings worn and shoes removed if in a home/ Gurdwara.

Sikh Funeral Traditions

Mourning and Remembering

Sikhism encourages people to accept death rather than mourn for a long time.

Sikhs believe that death means returning to God. After the funeral, family and friends read Sikh scriptures (Gurbani) for several days to find peace and strength.

A special ceremony called Bhog is held when the entire Guru Granth Sahib has been read. This is followed by a shared meal (langar), highlighting Sikh values of equality, community, and support.

 

Life After Death in Sikhism

Sikhs believe that the soul is reborn in different lives based on karma. The goal is to achieve liberation (mukti), which means becoming one with Waheguru and ending the cycle of rebirth. This is done by living truthfully, staying humble, and staying connected to God.

 

Community support, prayer, and acceptance of death help create peace and understanding during times of loss.