Variations are based on finances, status in the community, etc, etc.
a good basic understanding can be learned by reading this buddhanet article
Eulogy
I had met Graham on a few occasions at local Expat watering holes.Graham was a regular reader of this blog, so we talked mostly about local events.
What I liked most about him was his attitude, laid back, easy going and friendly.
During our last conversation he revealed to me that he was only two weeks older than me. He had seen some of my birthday party posts.
"Ah, another scorpion," I replied.
I had been to a nearby village for Bangfai and boatraces many times.
I saw Graham's home for the first time at his funeral, well over a hundred people were at his house.
buddhanet: "On the day of the funeral ... every effort is made to banish sorrow, loneliness and the fear of spirits by means of music and fellowship."
A first for me at a funeral was a translation into English of eulogies and speeches made.From the translators necktie and clasp I presumed him to be a teacher. His translation seemed pretty good.
I have seen this done before, a bathing ceremony, don't know the significance of using coconut milk.Orange soda added to my perplexity.
There are a number of options what to do with the ashes and bone fragments.Don't know as of yet what will be done this time.
Generally there is another ceremony in 100 days.
At times remains are enshrined on temple grounds.
At other times they are dispersed over the Mekong river
There were a number of cameras in use and I am hoping that others will share their photo's of this occasion.
These photographs are by Simon. View the album
If you wish to share your pictures, please post a comment. E-mail addresses of contributors are not published
