Death and Mourning in Buddhism

Reincarnation: Buddhists believe in reincarnation, which is the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. This cycle continues until one reaches Nirvana.
Karma: Buddhists believe that a person’s actions in this life will affect their status in their next life. Therefore, people must live a good life to improve their next one.
Funeral Rites: The body is usually cremated in Buddhism, similar to the way the Buddha’s body was after he reached Nirvana.
Merits: Merits are made for the deceased by giving gifts to the monks who perform the funeral rites. This helps transfer merit to the deceased, aiding their rebirth.

Mourning Practices in Buddhism

Meditation: Meditating and focusing on the impermanent nature of life helps deal with grief and loss.
Memorial Services: Traditional memorial services are held on the 7th, 49th, and 100th day after the death. This helps accept the reality of death and provides support in mourning.
Remembrance: It is customary to keep a small shrine, with a picture of the deceased, in the home. People may offer flowers or light incense at this shrine in remembrance of the loved ones.
Scripture Chanting: Chanting of scriptures like the Abhidharma helps in consoling the bereaved, as it discusses death and afterlife.