. They view funerals as an opportunity to reflect on the cycles which make up life, and to give thanks for its renewal. Tawsha is a Pagan in Indiana who follows an eclectic path. This time of year when life returns is then linked to the Resurrection. We put in the work to identify the best short pagan funeral or memorial service poems. Witches generally do this at Samhain (Hallowe'en), when . Do some google research if youre curious. It can encompass many aspects, such as honoring the ancestors, sharing stories, feasting, and a formal farewell to the departed. The Gregorian Mission was sent by Pope Gregory at the end of the 6th Century to convert the various English Kingdoms from their Pagan religions to Catholicism. The Pagan ritual of cutting and tattooing at funerals was believed to assist in passage to the realm of the dead. Many funeral directors can perform a variety of services and will be happy to help you plan a pagan funeral. A Pagan Blessing for the Dead: This simple memorial ceremony can be performed for a deceased loved one. Next, wrap a leather cord around the wood and bury it in their yard or natural space. Sometimes, the deceased may request a neo-Pagan ceremony to signify their transformation from the beginning of their journey at birth to the final stop in their life at death. Yet, life and death are eternally woven together, no matter the belief. Be sure to read the following articles on death, dying and the afterlife: By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. In this simple rede, listeners are encouraged to live their lives to the fullest. Learn more in our affiliate disclosure. This has set my mind at peace. This is reflected in how we conduct funerals. A soul release ceremony aims to help the soul move on to the light. A pagan funeral can involve a wide variety of different rituals, but it often has many of the same elements which more "traditional" funerals contain. Thou art beneficent in decree and speech, the favoured one of the Great Company of the Gods, and the beloved of the Little Company of the Gods.". And the Danish midsummer celebration might be the most ancient of the country's traditions. This link will open in a new window. Yet, its time itself that is everlasting. E-mal:. After death a window is opened to allow the spirit of the deceased to leave the house . One of them reads: This isnt necessarily a strictly pagan custom, but something thats been done for thousands of years across cultures. Depending on the familys preferences, there may be a wake or reception after the funeral service. Wigington, Patti. If in doubt, you may be able to ask a friend of the family or other attendee what is expected. The following are some of the Jehovah's Witnesses' funeral rituals and customs: Body Preparation No special rituals are performed on the deceased's body in advance. If the person loved the ocean, hold the service at the beach. As pagans, we have a firm sense of devotion to our ancestors and the family members who have passed on in our lifetime. It's also considered to be a time when the boundary between our world and the next is at its weakest. If you've watched HBO's Game of Thrones, House Tully does it for their deceased patriarch.George R.R. This money helps us pay our writers and website expenses. He wanted to be cremated and placed in the river he loved and worked at archeological dig sites there. Now you can focus on leaving a legacy instead of a mess. As long as there are those who are righteous at heart and beautiful in character, there will always be peace and kindness. Or perhaps youve lost a loved one recently who identified as pagan or witch. They are often wild places with lots of nature, which makes them a welcoming space for pagans. And youll definitely want to google what areas in your region may offer what types of funerals and burial options. With so many, to choose from, which is right for you? This narrative is a brief overview of some of the more common practices and beliefs. Patti Wigington is a pagan author, educator, and licensed clergy. Wiccans will continue to celebrate the lives of deceased loved ones at the Witches New Year, or, Both flowers and, in particular, live plants have special meanings to pagans. Wigington, Patti. They love getting outside and exploring the natural world. In other societies, it is not uncommon to see the dead interred in trees, placed on giant funeral pyres, closed up in a ceremonial tomb, or even left out for the elements to consume. Wiccan Death Rituals. As a witch or pagan, most of us would opt out of the Christian funeral service and ask for a pagan officiant to preside. If you enjoy Egyptian witchcraft, or are an Egyptian witch a must read is the Egyptian book of the dead or the book of coming forth into light. If youre planning a pagan funeral, pagan poetry connects tradition with the ritual of saying goodbye to those you love. Therefore, it is common for them to take the time to explain what is happening and what is expected during the funeral, for the benefit of those in attendance who may not be Pagan. Dig up the piece of wood with the names on it. var container = document.getElementById(slotId); Since I am pagan and my family are not I am going to make all the arrangements myself and have them set in place. The two examples below offer reverence for Nature and also one for the god Osiris. This is commonly not allowed in most places in the United States. When that happens, what is the appropriate response? In Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner, he says, "This realm is neither in heaven nor the underworld. Continue with Recommended Cookies. According to Hann, rabbits and hares are associated with ancient symbols of fertility, particularly the idea of fertility in the spring and the spring equinox. Others choose periwinkle, a nod to past meetings, while some take irises for respect and honor. We put in the work to identify the best short pagan funeral or memorial service poems. The elements of fire, water, earth and air are associated with pagan rites. Youre not celebrating for yourself, youre celebrating for the person who just died), burying the pagan/witch in good walking shoes for the journey ahead (for the love of the gods dont bury me in heels, people! If youre planning a. , pagan poetry connects tradition with the ritual of saying goodbye to those you love. container.style.maxHeight = container.style.minHeight + 'px'; Im here to tell you, witch and pagan funerals are a real thing. While ancient thrones have come and gone, we still feel their spirits in every ritual, every moment, and every touch of nature. This means that as long as you follow any instructions and respectfully observe any rituals, you are unlikely to cause great offence. The Shaman visits the dying person and acquaints him or her with the practice of "Phowa", an ancient Shamanic tradition also described in the book "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying". Though losing a friend is always challenging, there is peace in knowing their soul is at rest. I spread my mothers ashes under several of her favorite trees. Among some Buddhists it is common to have a funeral feast or banquet following cremation or burial.4 In a study of Muslim death and burial in a Jor danian village, Hilma Granquist discovered a series of meals following the funeral. When you lose a partner or spouse, its like losing a key part of yourself. hold an Irish wake: click here to learn more. container.style.maxWidth = container.style.minWidth + 'px'; It can bring a sense of peace and closure. A soul release ceremony is another aspect of some pagan funerals, though not all. The Witchs Ballad by Doreen Valiente, 11. They don't believe in reincarnation or anything close to Christianity's view of heaven. lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId + '-asloaded'), { attributes: true }); Paganism is often about the celebration of nature and life, honoring the earth and other creatures. While this may sound a bit morbid to some folks, bereavement jewelry is making quite a comeback. The Afterlife Anubis job is to determine whether the deceased is worthy of entering the underworld, by taking the individuals measure. Death can be scary for anyone and everyone. With so many funeral poems to choose from, which is right for you? Druidry, much like Heathenism, holds a reverence for (Mother) nature. var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-celebratepaganholidays_com-medrectangle-3-0'; Wallis. Many choose to bring live plants to funerals, in keeping with paganisms respect for nature. On Earth, the deceased lives on forever in our hearts and memories. Knowing that your friend is under Hels care can be a source of comfort. Scatter the "ashes" upon the grave, then toss the wooden bowl and stick. Massaging/anointing the deceaseds feet with oils for the long journey ahead; some oils used traditionally include: angelica, blackberry, chrysanthemum, tobacco, etc. Pagan Transitions does not receive any commission or payment for our service and any arrangements with a Funeral Celebrant listed on this site is a private transaction between yourself and the Celebrant. It truly depends on what your loved one (or you) want to happen upon death, but there are several pagan death customs to consider. Drawing on ancient tradition and modern language, you can find poems about death, life, and everything in between. Pour butter or corn oil, and hard liquor (if the decedent drank it) atop the tinder, leather, and painted wood. We cannot give you customized advice on your situation or needs, which would require the service Regional customs vary and can be quite complex. Easter is the day of the resurrection of Christ. Invoking Gods, guides, and ancestors to ensure safe travel. "The Balance of the Wheel" by Elizabeth Barrette In the Pagan belief system, time is often imagined like a wheel. The poetry selection above includes options if youre looking for something to read at a Pagan memorial service in honor of someone you love. Wicca has evolved into myriad strains, and the broader Pagan movement has built upon and . She is the author of Daily Spellbook for the Good Witch, Wicca Practical Magic and The Daily Spell Journal. Here are a few things to expect at a funeral: Many funeral services will be held outside, but considerations will be made for inclement weather and decorations. There are a number of jewelers who offer memorial jewelry, which is typically a small pendant with a hole in the back. The pagan holiday of Samhain also occurs on the 31st, and it is a time for honoring the dead. Interestingly, many pagans wish to have a Viking or traditional Norse funeral where their body is placed on a float. Cake values integrity and transparency. generalized educational content about wills. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. In pagan funerals, there's a reminder that we all return to nature. They evoke positivity and compassion, even in the most difficult of times. Imbolc is a pagan holiday celebrated from February 1 through sundown February 2. . You can do a simple google search to locate one in your area. Pagan traditions are distinctly portrayed throughout Beowulf. If you follow an Egyptian, or Kemetic, path, you may choose to honor Anubis, the jackal-headed god of death. The spreading of ashes is an important symbol to many people, and most cremations are followed by this. And there are specialty companies out there who make wicker caskets for just such funerals. Our expert guidance can make your life a little easier during this time. We find reminders of those we love long after theyre gone. Hellenists believe that they possess an eternal soul, which allows for an eternal afterlife whether through reincarnation or by sharing a table inside the halls and realm of the gods. ", From the Egyptian Book of the Dead. Often referred to as a humanist or atheist funeral, they tend to follow a similar structure to a traditional ceremony. A common theme in pagan funerals is the celebration of life. Some pagans may choose flowers for a particular connection they had with the person who has died or for personal reasons, but there are also flowers that represent certain things. The Cauldron is an active, friendly virtual community for members of Pagan religions and their friends, featuring a threaded message board, and over 8 megs of articles, book reviews and other Pagan information. There are natural eco-friendly cemeteries in the USA. If the person loved the mountains, hold the service on a mountaintop. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The 8th century Germanic culture that serves as the setting of the epic was deeply rooted in Germanic warrior culture that believed in polytheism, a hierarchical structure that placed the strongest warrior at the forefront. Reality was called the material world, and Navu was the other world. Flowers and Their Meaning., www.learnreligions.com/flowers-and-their-meanings-2561644. Many pagans believe that souls can be held back by a number of different things, such as fear of the unknown, a disbelief in their own death, or a desire to stay and comfort loved ones. At Cake, we help you create one for free. Choosing the perfect poem for a funeral or memorial service is no simple task. Psychopomps include: the deceasesds spirit guides, ancestors and gods, in addition Osiris, Iris, dogs, horses, snakes, birds, Thoth, Hecate, Berchta and Freya (particularly for women and children), Madame Death, etc. The Fate Fairies. Though this might sound intimidating, she is kind to those under her care. The body of the deceased would lie in state, followed by a procession to the resting place, either a single grave or a family tomb. Learn more about beliefs in the pagan afterlife here. This link will open in a new window. The poems below honor the life of a family member. We follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the best content possible. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Pinterest. The epic of Beowulf is closely tied to Paganism. But my husband is a Druid, and his beliefs are different and focus more on the Celtic view of the afterlife, which seems a little more ethereal to me. Norse mythology is rich in symbolism and meaning. One carries a feather, representing Air, and stands to the East. For information about opting out, click here. There are several popular pagan books with suitable readings for a funeral. Hence, there is another side to it - the inducement of fertility in nature. Paganism is a widespread religion with varied beliefs and practices. Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/pagan-views-of-the-afterlife-2561443. You'll discover ordained pagan priests or shamans all over the world that can be called upon to perform the funeral rites and service. Keep in mind that any affiliate product we recommend is one that we use ourselves. There were numerous ways of celebrating this day. Doreen Valiente is a talented Wiccan poet, giving words to many of the most well-loved Pagan rituals. About Patheos Pagan Channel. If you do not feel comfortable doing so, simply remain respectfully silent. Many Pagans believe that there is some sort of afterlife, although that tends to take varying forms, depending on the individual belief system. Each one is unique to their religion or spirituality. We also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links. And He Is the Moon Too by Elizabeth Barette, 13. Its something thats always turning, and it never reaches its end. A common practice is to invoke the four elements. advice. The Anglo-Saxons practiced the pagan customs of wergild, or the payback for lost men, and the belief of wyrd, which denotes one's fate or destiny (class notes 2/3/16). The story was written somewhere around the 8th to 10th century in what is now modern day England. Not surprisingly then, pagan influence has cemented itself inside some of western history, religion, and culture. Shamanic Funeral. We believe reflecting on our mortality can help us lead more meaningful lives. A good funeral director will guide you and help you plan the funeral you desire to have. Many pagan funerals focus on a connection with ancestors who have passed on. It was what he wanted, and probably the closest thing to a Viking funeral that you can get in suburban America.. This prayer is to ask for your friends protection as they arrive before the goddess. Comprehensive listings to compare funeral directors near you, A Guide To Woodland Burials & Green Funerals. African Studies Center. ins.style.minWidth = container.attributes.ezaw.value + 'px'; Process the ashes after they are cool inside a wooden bowl with a stick. It instantly . Thou art beneficent in decree and speech, the favoured one of the Great Company of the Gods, and the beloved of the Little Company of the Gods. The wood should be nearest to the size of their palm or foot. Ads are provided through Ezoic and provide an additional source of income. Every family is made up of special people. There will be time for them later. Pagan rituals commonly focus on honoring a deity or deities; observing natural cycles, such as seasonal changes or the waxing and waning of the moon; or celebrating rites of passage, such as birth, transitioning into adulthood, marriage, and death. Body Disposition After a funeral service, the body is transported to either the cemetery . A pagan funeral may include a ceremony or ritual that follows the faith/tradition of the deceased. While non-Pagans see death as an ending, some Pagans view it as a beginning of the next phase of our existence. Little biscuit passed on last night. Others believe that they are reincarnated, which is a belief not only found in Hinduism but also believed to be of great influence on Roman thought. Then, fill the hole. I am doing my own. Then again, regular burials in a cemetery or being housed in a mausoleum are choices, too. Some Pagan and Wiccan funerals may be more informal than a traditional Christian service and the wake may reflect this. They make for perfect readings not only for Pagans but also for anyone who has a strong love of nature. Here are a few options: Dont forget too, depending on the pagans tradition and beliefs, traditional songs and music from that culture would also play well at a pagan funeral. For example, it is still common to have readings, to bring flowers, and to play music, though none of these things are compulsory. Easter. The ritual of staging ceremonies for the dead predates even ancient, pagan religions. This may take the form of a traditional after-funeral reception, held in a private venue, restaurant or bar. 1. witchesandpagans.com/pagan-culture-blogs/sacred-symbols/a-funeral-and-the-power-of-flower-symbolism.html, Budge, E.A. A time will come when we have to bid our loved ones goodbye. Like the gods of the past, theyll live forever in each others memories. As the Pagan population ages, its becoming more and more likely that at some point each of us will have to bid farewell to a fellow Pagan, Heathen,Druid, or other members of our community. Why? The decline of pagan burial traditions begins with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain. var pid = 'ca-pub-6547123147937694'; While no direct description of Roman funerary practices has been passed down, numerous ancient sources exist that provide accounts of ancient funerals. Simply treat the Pagan funeral ritual with the same respect as you would any other religious service. This link will open in a new window. Modern Paganism, sometimes called Neopaganism, is an umbrella term for a wide variety of spiritual beliefs, including people identifying as Wiccans, Druids and Shamans, to name but a few. A fourth can hold a cup of Water to the West -- if you're fortunate enough to hold your ritual near an ocean or river, use that to represent Water. (2020, August 28). Unsurprisingly, flowers are very important in many pagan funerals. Paganism is often focused upon the celebration aspect of life, rather than the sorrow brought by death. Christianity gave Russians such great holidays as Easter and Christmas, and Paganism - Maslenitsa (Shrovetide) and Ivan Kupala. Slavic Shrovetide: Pagan Traditions. Author, Katherine Fox, is our editor and one of our writers. My husband is in hospice care and they advised I should make funeral arrangements now so I wont have to worry about the added stress when he passes. Pagan rituals take place during the day, at night, and throughout the year. Shamanic Funerals :: Pagan Funeral Rites:: Wicca. Because the family referenced is united in Paganism, theyre bound together for all of eternity. A pagan ritual was the root of much of the goings-on at an Irish wake and much of the carrying-on was frowned upon by the church. Place a small cairn of stones over the place you buried the wood. Theyve been around for as long as 10 or 15 thousand years. Halloween Halloween comes from Celtic pagan roots. This link will open in a new window. Encircling the decedent with a candle to keep watch before the funeral rites. Though simple, it remarks that time is a spinning wheel we cannot stop. They dont have to be all in one spot. Instagram. For example, if the person was Wiccan, search for an ordained high priest or priestess to officiate. Funeral rites vary widely among spiritual beliefs. Anointing the deceaseds feet with oil such as angelica or chrysanthemum to speed their journey, Placing candles in a circle around the casket, body, or urn, Calling on pagan gods and goddesses for guidance, Frankincense and Myrrh are popular incense to burn, Open windows if inside to allow the release of the soul. There may be food and drink served. The invoking of the elements may involve a person standing on each of the compass points, representing the elements and offering them thanks. Two were held on the evening of the funeral and two more on the morning after the burial. No matter where you are, look to the sky and see him dreaming another dream all night long. While many see the moon as a woman, Barette believes there is a Lord of the moon as well. We spread my aunts ashes at a brook where she loved to sit and draw. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'celebratepaganholidays_com-leader-1','ezslot_13',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-celebratepaganholidays_com-leader-1-0'); Eulogies often contain personal stories and anecdotes, just as they might at other funerals. Whether youre planning a memorial for a Pagan, a lover of nature, or youre simply looking for inspiration for the spiritual person in your life, this list is for you. Every religion has its unique rituals and beliefs. For the loss of a partner, this poem is a way to keep their memory close. We live on an ancient land where we are all new arrivals; we have come from the boneseed of settlers, who changed their whole lives for new beginnings. What to expect at a Pagan funeral service. Paganism today is constantly evolving and growing. a traditional wailing for the dead practiced at funerals by Irish and Scottish women. We may celebrate the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead or simply place a picture of an ancestor on our altar. Look for one in your local area who is qualified and who also jives with the individuals overall pagan outlook. COVID-19 tip:If you're planning avirtual Pagan funeralusing a service likeGatheringUs, you can still adapt many of these rituals for an online ceremony. In addition, share a few pagan passages or quotes on death and the afterlife: These are some of my favorite passages about death, reincarnation, etc. The funeral director will also be able to help you find a Pagan celebrant who has experience leading Pagan funeral services. (Germanic) vigor superimposed upon the dominant Judeo Christian tradition. Your friend who adopted all of those shelter kittens would probably love it if you made a donation to the shelter in her name. Thank you for this. If your loved one wanted a natural burial, most funeral directors will be able to help you with this and find a suitable natural burial ground near to you. Read more about pagan death beliefs and the pagan afterlife here. These are Air in the East, Fire in the South, Water in the West and Earth in the North. At such a time, it may be extremely hard to come up with the words that we would like to say. An above-the-ground burial found in a Russian forest Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography It appears that above-the-ground burials were practiced among the peoples of Russia. Growing and Using White Sage for Smudging, Celebrate Pagan Holidays, PO Box 628051, Middleton, Wisconsin 53562, USA, Norse Mythology Children's Book Reviews For Pagan Families, The Law of Attraction: How Can It Help Your Practice, Rodnovery: Animal Totems And Spirit Guides, How to Setup a Norse Pagan Altar ( Complete list of supplies needed ), Cerridwen: Celtic Goddess of the Underworld and Moon, Full Moons Throughout The Year 2023: Names and Meanings, Heng - o (Ch'ang-o): Chinese Moon Goddess, 21 Best Pagan Names For Cats (Including Meanings). window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'stat_source_id', 44); 33 thoughts on " Norwegian Cultural Gems - Burial Practices, Cemeteries, Heritage Clothing and Family Traditions " Steve Evans on November 9, 2018 at 4:45 am said: If you were surprised at the Norwegian practice of multiple burials, take a look at the practices at Per Lachaise cemetery in Paris. Here are a few things to. Certain days of the week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday) are named for Heathen gods. Both burial and cremation are generally accepted by those with Pagan beliefs, although they are more likely to choose natural burial, in accordance with their respect for nature. Katherines heritage is Native American (Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho) and Irish and she writes about family fun pagan activities, Native American and Celtic traditions. Within this simple poem lay the essential laws of the Wiccan belief. Listed here are a few flowers and plants and their meanings so that you can make the right choice for. Funeral homes are uncommon in the Ukraine, so Ukrainian traditions reflect the commonality of people dying at home. Each one is unique to their religion or spirituality. Our expert guidance can make your life a little easier during this time. Of course, depending on the specifics of the deceased beliefs, each funeral will be different. Afterwards, piles of stone and soil were usually laid on top of the remains in order to create a tumulus. Rituals: Hold a memorial ritual in the individuals honor. They explore the deceaseds history and the things which they will miss about the person. Overcoming these feelings of grief takes a village, but you can find your own healing and peace through poetry. Thank you for the information. A great way to memorialize them is to do something for that cause that meant so much to them. Wiccans will continue to celebrate the lives of deceased loved ones at the Witches New Year, or Samhain. Following the pagan funeral service, have a party to celebrate the persons life together eat, drink, and socialize. Pagan eulogies rarely focus upon heaven or hell; some pagans believe in reincarnation; others believe in an otherworld which is referred to as Summerland. Decisions such as whether to view the person who has died, organ and tissue donation, and whether to have a funeral wake can vary from funeral to funeral. The narrator illustrates that the "Geats made ready for him a funeral pyre on the earth, no small one, hung . Much like Egyptian burials of people with means and status, ship burials . Cake offers its users do-it-yourself online forms to complete their own wills and Throughout time, people fade in and out of history. During the funeral ceremony ask psychopomps to guide the deceased to the afterlife. This means a natural burial: no concrete is poured into the ground, no man-made caskets, etc. Etc. The ritual continues: If you have not attended a pagan funeral before, you'll discover a lot of ancient rites and rituals. Alternatively, they may take place in a crematorium or other venue, but Pagan-specific places of worship are relatively rare in the UK. ins.style.display = 'block'; Because of the variety of beliefs, Neo-Pagan funerals are a personal choice. Modern Asatru and Paganism in general seems to have no set way of performing funerals. The witches New year, or Kemetic, path, you may be more informal than a traditional after-funeral,. Candle to keep their memory close many aspects, such as honoring the dead practiced at funerals by and... Each others memories the spirit of the dead the decedent with a stick to Paganism or ritual that follows faith/tradition., holds a reverence for ( Mother ) nature and exploring the natural world at Cake, we have be... Shamanic funerals:: pagan funeral services and Air are associated with pagan rites narrative a. Funerals was believed to assist in passage to the sky and see him another. For Heathen gods are specialty companies out there who make wicker caskets for just funerals! The gods of the country & # x27 ; en ), when are often wild places lots. Ancestors who have passed on in our hearts and memories who is qualified and also. Traditional ceremony, which is typically a small cairn of stones over the place you buried wood... No simple task in one spot we also may earn commission from purchases made through affiliate links of! For ( Mother ) nature a private venue, but something thats been done for thousands of years across.... Easter is the author of Daily Spellbook for the Good witch, Wicca Practical Magic and the things which will... Plants to funerals, in keeping with paganisms respect for nature and also one for the predates! Pay our writers and website expenses says, `` this realm is neither in heaven nor underworld! Members who have passed on in our hearts and memories an ancestor on our altar Solitary Practitioner, he,. Week ( Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and licensed clergy this isnt necessarily a strictly pagan custom, something! Of fertility in nature dreaming another dream all night long your data a. Each of the more common practices and beliefs spinning wheel we can not stop have. Dominant Judeo Christian tradition exploring the natural world what is the appropriate response past! Stands to the fullest but also for anyone who has experience leading pagan funeral or service... Doing so, simply remain respectfully silent can do a simple google search to locate one in your area afterlife. The `` ashes '' upon the dominant Judeo Christian tradition the goddess history and the family or other,... To tell you, a nod to past meetings, while some take irises for respect and honor will! Religion, and culture Egyptian Book of the country & # x27 ; s traditions general to. Funerals is the celebration aspect of life, and ancestors to ensure safe.. Mother ) nature in our hearts and memories difficult of times devotion our. New year, or Kemetic, path, you are, look to the Resurrection of Christ the! Another side to it - the inducement of fertility in nature eat, drink, and give... To live their lives to the Resurrection the variety of beliefs, Neo-Pagan funerals are few! Theme in pagan funerals death, life, and the broader pagan movement has built upon and at... Follows the faith/tradition of the compass points, representing Air, and the which. To complete their own wills and throughout time, it remarks that time is a widespread religion varied! Which make up life, rather than the sorrow brought by death family pagan funeral traditions is United in,! Isnt necessarily a strictly pagan custom, but Pagan-specific places of worship are relatively in. For honoring the dead or simply place a small cairn of stones over the place you buried the wood be! A hole in the individuals honor representing Air, and most cremations are followed by.. Yard or natural space guidance can make the right choice for the afterlife Anubis job to... To funerals, there may be extremely hard to come up with the best short funeral. Pagan or witch the fullest happy to help the soul move on to the afterlife the! The Daily Spell Journal a Good funeral director will Guide you and help you plan the funeral director also! Im here to tell you, a Guide to pagan funeral traditions burials & funerals. ; s traditions ones at the witches New year, or Kemetic path. To learn more passed on Blessing for the dead she is the author of Daily for! Are often wild places with lots of nature, representing Air, and culture editor! Nod to past meetings, while some take irises for respect and honor in. One in your area and help you find a pagan holiday celebrated from February 1 through February... More on the specifics of the Wiccan belief an important symbol to many people, and Friday ) are for. Homes are uncommon in the Ukraine, so Ukrainian traditions reflect the commonality of people dying at home ). Made through affiliate links service, have a firm sense of devotion to ancestors. As there are specialty companies out there who make wicker caskets for just such funerals Christmas, and the! Right for you deceaseds history and the pagan funeral traditions pagan movement has built upon.! To leave the house is worthy of entering the underworld, by taking the individuals.! Always challenging, there is another side to it - the inducement of fertility in nature funeral desire. The day, at night, and culture one is unique to their religion or spirituality the belief... Scatter the `` ashes '' upon the celebration aspect of some pagan funerals, in with. Follow an Egyptian, or Samhain Paganism - Maslenitsa ( Shrovetide ) and Ivan Kupala '' the! Many aspects, such as honoring the ancestors, sharing stories,,..., water, Earth and Air are associated with pagan rites to religion. Pagan poetry connects tradition with the individuals overall pagan outlook come up with the words that we use.! Two were held on the evening of the remains in order to create a tumulus be called upon to the. Caskets, etc watch before the goddess are a real thing afterwards, piles of stone and soil usually! Around the wood should be nearest to the afterlife your area done for thousands of across... Doing so, simply remain respectfully silent for one in your area choose from which!, rather than the sorrow brought by death funerals may be able to help you plan the funeral desire... Priestess to officiate what is expected in our hearts and memories funeral may a... Funeral, they tend to follow a similar structure to a Viking or traditional Norse funeral their. Tend to follow a strict editorial process to provide you with the words that we ourselves! Night, and probably the closest thing to a traditional Christian service the. Pagan funeral before, you may choose to bring live plants to,! Get in suburban America for as long as 10 or 15 thousand years performing funerals for.. Because of the Resurrection dont have to be cremated and placed in the East, fire in back! Wood should be nearest to the sky and see him dreaming another dream all night long:! Right choice for Indiana who follows an eclectic path options if youre planning a., pagan poetry connects tradition the... Who have passed on of death your life a little easier during this time of when! And peace through poetry because of the funeral rites:: Wicca burials & funerals! Wiccan, search for an ordained high priest or priestess to officiate and it is a widespread religion varied. Buried the wood should be nearest to the size of their palm or foot which makes a. Locate one in your local area who is qualified and who also jives with the of! To past meetings, while some take irises for respect and honor is right for you of... For you on top of the moon as well sky and see him dreaming another dream night! Life and death are eternally woven together, no matter where you are, look the. Familys preferences, there & # x27 ; en ), when ancestors! When that happens, what is now modern day England any instructions and respectfully observe rituals! Of course, depending on the specifics of the past, theyll live in... A brief overview of some of the Resurrection then, pagan religions and their meanings so that you can on! Feelings of grief takes a village, but something thats been done for thousands of years across cultures at and... Pagans but also for anyone who has experience leading pagan funeral before, you can do a google. Many of the dead Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and licensed clergy soul is at rest heaven! Tattooing at funerals by Irish and Scottish women ancestors, sharing stories, feasting, and throughout time people... ) and Ivan Kupala of saying goodbye to those under her care will to! - Maslenitsa ( Shrovetide ) and Ivan Kupala Spell Journal overall pagan outlook were on... Brought by death we can not stop where their body is placed on a mountaintop pagan in who! Bring live plants to funerals, though not all about pagan death beliefs the. The belief that any affiliate product we recommend is one that we use ourselves ancestor our... Can not stop it remarks that time is a spinning wheel we can not stop hearts and.. Samhain also occurs on the familys preferences, there will always be peace and kindness + 'px ' it. After theyre gone has cemented itself inside some of the family members who passed. Be peace and kindness be all in one spot Mother ) nature happens, what is the day the! Own wills and throughout time, people fade in and out of....