# A Guide to Baha'i Funeral and Burial Practices

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> Source: Bahá'í Library Online (bahai-library.com), curated by Jonah Winters. Used by permission of the curator. Original citation: Natalie M. Reyes, A Guide to Baha'i Funeral and Burial Practices, Elegant Impressions, 2001, bahai-library.com.
> ──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
> 
> A Guide to Bahá'í Funeral and Burial Practices
> 
> Natalie M. Reyes, compiler
> 
> Elegant Impressions, 2001
> 
> A Guide to Baha’i Funeral and Burial Practices
> 
> (c) Natalie M. Reyes
> 
> Elegant Impressions
> 
> First edition 2001
> 
> With tips on body preparation and useful
> 
> information on arranging one’s affairs
> 
> This booklet is dedicated to the dear, wonderful souls and
> institutions who have served and are serving Bahá’u’lláh with all the
> ardor of their hearts.
> 
> I am grateful to the people who have helped to bring this publication
> to fruition. The stories they have shared enrich our understanding of
> the sacred beauty and consecration of a service given so lovingly to
> beloved ones that have been born into the world of the spirit. I would
> especially like to thank Mary Louise Suhm, Dr. Adrienne Ellis Reeves,
> Lynne Yancy and Jeannie and Don Cory for their many valuable
> contributions and suggestions. And, of course, Karin Ferguson and Cinty
> Adlparvar for generously sharing their moving and helpful accounts.
> 
> The second edition has been expanded to include additional
> information for individuals, Spiritual Assemblies and others who may now
> find this booklet even more useful.
> 
> ………. The Bahá’í Faith is an independent world religion. It is the
> second most widely spread religion in the world after Christianity. The
> fundamental principles enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh, the Prophet-Founder of
> the Bahá’í Faith, are the oneness of God, the oneness of religion, and
> the oneness of mankind. Bahá’u’lláh taught that divine revelation is a
> continuous and progressive process and that the missions of the
> Messengers of God represent successive stages in the spiritual evolution
> of human society.
> 
> ………. The purpose of human life for Bahá’ís is to know and love God,
> to acquire virtues and spiritual qualities, and to carry forward an
> ever-advancing civilization. Bahá’ís view life in this world as a
> preparation for life in the next world. The soul comes into existence at
> conception and is immortal.
> 
> ………. Bahá’í teachings describe life and death as parts of an eternal
> process of growth. In this world and after death an individual’s soul
> develops and evolves as it draws nearer to God. Heaven is described as
> nearness to God; hell is separation from God. The soul is not reborn in
> a different body. Bahá’u’lláh said that death is reunion with God.
> 
> …………… Bahá’í Office of Public Information, Wilmette, IL., Dec. 1989
> [.///] [.]
> 
> For those unfamiliar with the Bahá’í Faith, here are some helpful
> links to assist you in exploring the teachings of Bahá’u’lláh:
> www.bahai.org www.us.bahai.org www.bahaiworldnews.org Introduction
> 
> Just as we prepare for the birth of a new baby, it is equally
> important to pay a lot of attention to the preparation of those passing
> to the spiritual worlds of God. Many of us are unprepared and suddenly
> we are faced with the need to render this service for a beloved
> soul.
> 
> There is much information about Bahá’í Funerals and Burial Practices
> scattered in many different publications. This booklet is not meant to
> replace these resources. Rather, it is an attempt to provide a handy
> guide to assist individuals and institutions to extend this sacred
> service to the Baha’is. A partial list of publications appears at the
> end of this booklet.
> 
> Included herein are some practical things to consider when assisting
> a believer who is passing to the next world. They are by no means
> definitive or exhaustive, but may act as an aid to awareness of various
> details that may apply in individual cases.
> 
> Suggestions are included for ways to help with the care of those with
> terminal illness. Those believers who wish to make it easier for those
> left behind will find this booklet useful, as well.
> 
> Finally, it is hoped that this booklet will serve as a valuable aid
> without having to search many places for the answers one needs in
> arranging a befitting farewell to a soul whose earthly journey has
> ended.- - - -
> 
> Page 1
> 
> Responsibilities of Local Spiritual Assemblies
> 
> The burial of the dead is an occasion of great solemnity and
> importance, and while the conduct of the funeral service and the
> arrangements for the interment may be left to the relatives of the
> deceased, the Local Spiritual Assembly has the responsibility for
> educating the believers in the essential requirements of the Bahá’í law
> of burial as at present applied, and in courteously and tactfully
> drawing these requirements to the attention of the relatives if there is
> any indication that they may fail to observe them. These requirements
> are: that the body not be cremated; that it not be transported more than
> an hour’s journey from the place of death to the place of burial; that
> the Prayer for the Dead be recited if the deceased is a Bahá’í of
> fifteen years (of age) or more; and that the funeral be carried out in a
> simple and dignified manner that would be a credit to the community.
> (Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies [{Developing Distinctive Bahá’í
> Communities: Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies}, 18.1)
> 
> Assemblies might wish to appoint someone to contact local funeral
> homes to talk with the Director about available facilities and services.
> This is an opportunity to present them with a copy of this booklet and
> to introduce the Faith. A Press Kit could be given them at this time.
> Directors can provide information about cemeteries in the area that
> would be within the burial requirement of no more than a one hour
> journey from place of death. Many have a list of them. Some cemeteries
> require a vault at the gravesite, others do not, especially those
> outside city limits. There can be cost savings in having the funeral
> home open and close the grave, where this is permitted. Some country
> cemeteries may be owned by churches and one would have to ask if non
> church members may be buried there.
> 
> Larger communities could also purchase a casket to have on hand for
> emergency situations. It may not always be possible to obtain one fast
> enough if needed for a rapid burial.- - - -
> 
> Page 2
> 
> Arrangements to store it at a funeral parlor would be an option if
> permitted. Embalming and refrigeration requirements may differ from
> place to place. Assemblies should be aware of the laws in the area in
> order to be of service to the believers. It is also a good idea to have
> burial rings and shroud materials available for community members.
> 
> A seminar for the believers about this very important topic is
> another way of educating community members about advance and responsible
> preparation for our transition to the next world. Although many do not
> wish to face the prospect of death, we all will die sometime–some by
> accident or illness; others by the aging process. Included in the
> instruction could be information about avoiding excessive funeral and
> burial costs. Among the many low cost options are direct burial with a
> graveside service. A memorial service may be held at a later date. Each
> state has different laws requiring embalming and these should be checked
> out in advance. It is a good idea to request itemization of all the
> services the funeral home may offer. The Federal Trade Commission has
> many laws regarding funeral costs and can be called upon to assist with
> disputes about unfair charges.
> 
> In some states burial is permitted on private property. And
> preparation of the body need not always be at a mortuary. It can be done
> at home if one so desires. If no one is available to render this
> service, mortuary staff can perform it. Arrangements may be possible to
> allow someone to be present to say prayers as the body is prepared.
> Community members may be reminded of the importance of preparing Advance
> Health Care Directives to specify what, if any, revival methods are to
> be used. Information about this can easily be obtained from the Internet
> and in the case of low income individuals and the elderly, from
> available free legal services. An attorney may be needed to assure
> conformity with State requirements.
> 
> Individuals can feel confident in seeking assistance from their
> Assembly, or from a nearby Assembly if they do not reside- - - -
> 
> Page 3
> 
> in a community that has an Assembly. The Assembly can often help to
> assure that a proper Bahá’í funeral takes place if relatives of the
> deceased are not Baha’is. The Assembly may offer to help notify next of
> kin and aid in the preparation of readings for the service, if desired.
> Prayers offered on behalf of those bereaved can be of great help in
> easing the trauma associated with parting with a loved one. A community
> effort to provide meals for family and friends and to prepare food and
> assist with a reception following the service is a warm and loving way
> to provide for support for bereaved ones. A committee could also help
> those bereaved with finding the necessary resources to conclude the
> business of the deceased and with sending acknowledgments of
> condolences, flowers and contributions. It is very difficult for the one
> suffering the loss to attend to all these details, so help with these
> and other details would most likely be welcome.
> 
> Some Assemblies may already have cemeteries. Others may wish to
> consider acquiring one. It usually is a simple matter and involves
> getting a suitable property and the necessary permits. Some guidance was
> provided to the Bahá’ís of Brazil: “At the present time there are no
> definite regulations for preparing Bahá’í cemeteries. However, in a
> Tablet of the Master’s He emphasizes the need for the cemetery to have a
> beautiful outward appearance and states that the graves should not be
> joined together but that each one should have a flower bed around its
> four sides. He also indicates that it would be pleasing if a pool were
> located in the center of the cemetery and beautiful trees were planted
> around it as well as around the cemetery itself.” Of course the care and
> maintenance of the cemetery would have to be provided for. A
> Baha’i-owned cemetery could provide the believers a considerable savings
> in burial expense. Having a Bahá’í cemetery would add to the Community’s
> prestige and promote recognition of the nobility with which we regard
> the human soul.- - - -
> 
> Page 4
> 
> Responsibilities of Individuals
> 
> Bahá’u’lláh states that it is “incumbent upon everyone” to make a
> will. A booklet titled, {The Writing of a Will}, on how to prepare a
> will is available from the Office of the Treasurer, Bahá’í National
> Center, Wilmette, IL 60091. It can also be downloaded from the national
> Bahá’í website at www.usbnc.org. This document will provide you with
> some guidelines for your preparation prior to consulting an attorney. It
> is acceptable place the Greatest Name symbol (Arabic calligraphy) on the
> top of one’s Will and Testament. You are encouraged to write your
> testimony and give it to your attorney for inclusion in your Will.
> 
> The will should state, among other things, that the believer wishes
> to be buried according to Bahá’í law and can specify the details of
> these laws if he or she wishes. It should also include instructions for
> the payment of any unpaid Huququ’llah. Because wills are usually not
> located or read until after the funeral, it is important to make family
> members and/or one’s Assembly aware of one’s wishes in this regard. A
> copy of the will may be given to one’s local Spiritual Assembly, as well
> as to family members and/or the executor of the estate. It is important
> to request trusted persons to plan the funeral exactly as one wishes,
> since burial instructions usually are not legally binding.
> 
> There are other things that individuals can do, although they are not
> required to do so. It is especially helpful to survivors if adequate
> funds are accumulated to pay for the funeral. This could be insurance
> proceeds or savings designated for this purpose. Sometimes an undue
> hardship is imposed on loved one who are not in a position to assume
> this cost. A burial kit is also a loving way to eliminate unnecessary
> stress on those charged with final arrangements.- - - -
> 
> Page 5
> 
> A list of helpful suggestions to ease the cares of loved ones can be
> found in the section “Preparing for Life’s End Stage’ [.] Laws Currently
> Binding in the West * The body must be buried, not cremated.
> 
> ’Abdu’l-Bahá explained the law prohibiting cremation:
> 
> ………. “’Thy letter has been received. Due to the scarcity of time, I
> write the answer briefly: The body of man, which has been formed
> gradually, must similarly be decomposed gradually. This is according to
> the real and natural order and Divine Law. If it had been better for it
> to be burned after death, in its very creation it would have been so
> planned that the body would automatically become ignited after death, be
> consumed and turned into ashes. But the divine order formulated by the
> heavenly ordinance is that after death, this body shall be transferred
> from one stage to another different from the preceding one, so that
> according to the relations which exist in the world, it may gradually
> combine and mix with other elements, thus going through stages until it
> arrives in the 3 vegetable kingdom, there turning into plants and
> flowers, developing into trees of the highest paradise, becoming
> perfumed and attaining the beauty of color.
> 
> ………. “‘Cremation suppresses it speedily from attainment to these
> transformations, the elements becoming so quickly decomposed that
> transformation to these various stages is checked.’
> 
> “When we realize that our physical bodies are composed of elements
> placed in the earth by their Creator, and which through the orderly
> processes of His Law are continually being used in the formation of
> beings, we can better understand the necessity for our physical bodies
> to be subjected to the gradual process of decomposition. As at the time
> of death, the real and eternal self of man, his soul, abandons its
> physical garment to soar in the realms of God, we may compare the body
> to a vehicle which has been used for the journey through- - - -
> 
> Page 6
> 
> earthly life and no longer needed once the destination has been
> reached.”
> 
> ………. [Letter from the Universal House of Justice, dated June 6, 1971,
> to an individual believer, in Lights of Guidance, no. 669] [.]
> 
> ………. “Whereas believers should be informed of the Bahá’í law of
> burial and urged to ensure that their remains are not cremated this is a
> matter of education and not one involving the imposition of sanctions.
> Obviously a Spiritual Assembly cannot itself arrange for the cremation
> of remains of a Bahá’í even if it was that person’s wish that his
> remains be disposed of in this way. Also, whenever a Spiritual Assembly
> learns that the non-Bahá’í relations of a deceased Bahá’í are proposing
> to cremate the remains, the Assembly should do all it can to explain the
> Bahá’í attitude to the relations in an effort to prevent the
> cremation.
> 
> ………. ({Letter written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice,
> dated December 9, 1984, Australian Local Spiritual Assembly Handbook,
> p. 342, par. 12.5.3}) [.]
> 
> The Prayer for the Dead is to be recited for a believer age 15 or
> older. This prayer is found in all the prayer books and on page 40 of
> this booklet. The gender of this prayer may be changed for a woman. The
> prayer is congregational; that is, all must stand [in silence] while one
> person reads the prayer. If those attending are not Baha’is, they should
> stand during the reading. There is no requirement to face the Qiblih
> (Bahji) when reciting this prayer. [.] Correct Way of Reading the Prayer
> for the Dead
> 
> (If the dead be a woman, let him say: This is Thy handmaiden and the
> daughter of Thy handmaiden, etc…) [From Bahá’u’lláh, Kitáb-i-Aqdas,
> p. 102]- - - -
> 
> Page 7
> 
> The correct way of reciting the Prayer for the Dead is as follows:
> Allah-u-Abha (once) We all, verily, worship God (19 times) Allah-u-Abha
> (once) We all, verily, bow down before God (19 times) Allah-u-Abha
> (once) We all, verily, are devoted unto God (19 times) Allah-u-Abha
> (once) We all, verily, give praise unto God (19 times) [.]
> 
> The body is not to be transported more than one hour’s journey
> from the place of death. No method of transport is specified, but the
> journey must not take longer than an hour. The time may be calculated
> from the city limits to the site of burial. [.] Laws Not Presently
> Binding in the West
> 
> The body should be washed and wrapped in a shroud of [white] silk
> or cotton (See Section on Body Preparation.)
> 
> A burial ring is to be placed on the finger. The ring bears the
> inscription, {“I come forth from God, and return unto Him, detached from
> all save Him, holding to His Name, the Merciful, the Compassionate.”}
> The burial ring is used for adults only (those age 15 and older). These
> rings are available from Bahá’í Distribution Service and other Bahá’í
> distribution sources.
> 
> When buried, the feet should face the Qiblih, which is Bahji.
> 
> Page 8
> 
> The coffin should be of crystal, stone or hard fine wood. There
> is no objection at present to the use of concrete. [.] Other
> Considerations
> 
> Burial should take place as soon after death as
> possible.
> 
> The body is not to be embalmed. It can be refrigerated for a
> short time if needed to allow additional time for distant relatives to
> arrive and for preparation of the body. Check with your state or a local
> funeral director to determine how long a body may be held without
> embalming. There may be a charge for this service. When circumstances do
> not permit prompt burial or if embalming is a requirement of civil law
> where you reside, ask that a process be used that will only temporarily
> regard the disintegration.
> 
> It is not permissible to allow injection of any chemical to speed
> the rate of decomposition.
> 
> Bahá’ís may donate their bodies or organs to medical science, but
> provisions must be made to treat the remains with dignity and bury the
> remains within one hour’s travel from the place of death. (See Section
> on Organ Donation.) [*] Related Topics
> 
> Believers who have been deprived of administrative rights may be
> buried according to Bahá’í Law and in Bahá’í cemeteries.
> 
> Relatives who are not Bahá’í may be buried in Bahá’í cemeteries,
> but may not have an official Bahá’í funeral. (The Prayer for the Dead
> would not be read.)- - - -
> 
> Page 9
> 
> A naturally aborted fetus is not to be cremated. Since the soul
> exists at conception, it would be perfectly proper to have a simple
> Bahá’í burial. If abortion takes place at a hospital the staff needs to
> be made aware that the fetus must not be cremated. (See Guidelines for
> Spiritual Assemblies [Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities]
> 18.5)
> 
> Bahá’ís in military service should take all necessary measures to
> see that Bahá’í laws regarding burial are observed. All military
> personnel should also notify their families or next of kin about the
> laws and of their wish to be buried accordingly.
> 
> If death occurs at sea, the friends should be guided by whatever
> civil or maritime law is applicable under the circumstances until the
> Universal House of Justice legislates on this matter. There is no
> provision in the Kitáb-i-Aqdas concerning this.
> 
> Although suicide is forbidden in the Sacred Scriptures, victims
> of suicide are permitted to have a Bahá’í funeral.
> 
> Regarding euthanasia, nothing has been found in the Sacred Text
> on this matter. Decisions must be left to the patient and those
> responsible for the patient via a Living Will or other
> document.
> 
> The word “Baha’i” may be inscribed in the center of a
> nine-pointed star on the gravestone. Quotations from the Writings also
> may be used. Any one of the three samples below [not in this text] may
> be used. The gravestone should reflect the dignity and sacredness of the
> Faith.- - - -
> 
> Page 10
> 
> Memorial services may be held but should not become ritualistic.
> Prayers on behalf of the departed are conducive to the progress of the
> soul in the world beyond. Gifts and good deeds in memory of those who
> have passed on are most helpful to the development of their souls in the
> realms beyond and will give them great joy. [.] The Funeral
> Service
> 
> It is extremely simple and consists of a congregational prayer [the
> Prayer for the Dead] to be read before burial. (See page 30.) There is
> no objection whatever to people who are not Bahá’ís being present when
> the prescribed prayer is read, as long as they respect our manner of
> reading it and stand while it is being read. No rituals should be
> developed in conducting a service and the believers may select readings
> form the Bahá’í Sacred Scriptures and from other sources, if desired.
> Music may be used and the utmost flexibility and simplicity observed. It
> is a sacred occasion and should be treated accordingly. The choice of an
> open or closed casket is a matter of individual preference. [.]
> 
> If the family of a Bahá’í Declines a Bahá’í Funeral
> 
> Bahá’ís may attend the funeral service of a Bahá’í whose non-Bahá’í
> relatives have prevented the Bahá’í funeral from taking place. The
> Bahá’ís should offer Bahá’í prayers for the progress of the soul of
> their departed friend, if circumstances permit. If they cannot be
> offered on the occasion of the funeral they should be offered at another
> time. However, if possible, every effort should be made to persuade the
> family to allow a Bahá’í funeral.- - - -
> 
> Page 11
> Selection of a Coffin
> 
> There is quite a range of prices for coffins. When you buy one from
> the funeral home you may or may not get the lowest price available.
> There are places on the internet that will deliver within 2 days. There
> prices are quite reasonable, ranging from around $1200 to $2000 for a
> fine hard wood casket. Check out exactly what is offered. Is the
> interior lined or is it extra? It might be wise to have a trusted friend
> help with this at a time when one may be too stressed to make a good
> decision. Be careful of extra items the mortuary may try to sell you
> that are unnecessary for a Bahá’í funeral and that can increase the cost
> of burial considerably.
> 
> Be aware that only in some cases it is required to purchase the
> coffin from the funeral home handling arrangements. Some pressure may be
> applied to drive up the price, but one should feel free to ask for the
> most economical coffin available from the supplier. If you state the
> amount you can afford, the funeral home may work within your budget.
> 
> To combat many abuses in the industry, the Federal Trade Commission
> enacted legislation to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive
> practices. One can call on that body to assist with any problems you may
> encounter regarding negotiations for fair prices.
> 
> ………. [NOTE: California is one of the states where you may purchase a
> casket from a source other than the funeral home, and, if so purchased,
> the following rules apply: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires
> funeral homes to accept any casket purchased from an outside source. The
> casket company you choose will deliver during normal business hours, and
> you do not have to be present to accept the delivery. A funeral
> provider’s refusal to use third party merchandise until the consumer has
> inspected it may place an unreasonable burden on consumer choice, in
> violation of Section 453.4(b)(1) of the FTC Funeral Rule; therefore they
> cannot refuse to accept the casket delivery. State and Federal laws
> prohibit any additional fees from being assessed to your casket
> purchase. Funeral or other service fees are to be negotiated between the
> member and their funeral home.] [*] Selection of a Cemetery
> 
> Frequently a cemetery a little distant from the city or town where
> death occurs can be a less expensive alternative and can be a lovely
> site as well. Some cemeteries may have a list of places that would be
> within an hour’s journey. Depending on the time of year various
> conditions can affect the time it takes to arrive at a cemetery, such as
> rain, fog, snow, road repairs, etc. These need to be taken into
> consideration when selecting a burial site. It seems a good idea to have
> a list of cemetery locations on file for easy reference. It is also
> beneficial to know that veterans are entitled to free- - - -
> 
> Page 12
> 
> burial in a veteran’s cemetery and a spouse can obtain an adjoining
> plot at a nominal charge. If there is one close to the place of death,
> it would be worth exploring.
> 
> Many individuals take the time to explore the various locations that
> could be considered for distance and indicate their choice of a burial
> site. Sometimes it is advantageous to pre-pay a site, if one does not
> plan to travel at any time and has a permanent residence. [.] Graveside
> Services
> 
> In lieu of a service at a mortuary, one may elect to have a graveside
> service, and a memorial in a home or other chosen site. Considerable
> savings are possible in choosing this option. It is also possible to
> plan a very simple and beautiful combined memorial and burial service at
> the site of interment. [.] Grave Markers
> 
> Here again there is considerable price variation. Since the marker
> needn’t be placed immediately, there is time to shop around. That way
> the quotation and/or inscription desired can be carefully thought out
> and would prevent possible future regrets. Normally, the building of
> structures or headstones on graves should be left to the family of the
> deceased, and all expenses should be covered by them. The use of the
> Most Great Name or the ringstone symbol on the gravestone is not
> appropriate. In a letter dated September 17, 1971 to an individual
> believer we wrote the following: “Concerning the question you ask in
> your postscript, there is no specific ruling regarding the type of
> headstone that may be used at a grave site. However, regarding the
> inscription on a headstone, the beloved Guardian asked the believers not
> to use any form of the Greatest Name but a nine pointed star may be
> used. Or, you may wish to have an appropriate- - - -
> 
> Page 13
> 
> writing inscribed on the headstone. The position of the body in the
> grave should be with the feet pointing toward the Qiblih, which is Bahji
> in ’Akka.” (Letter from the Universal House of Justice to the National
> Spiritual Assembly of Uganda, May 4, 1972 - Lights of Guidance, p. 198.)
> [.] [.//]
> 
> ………. “As regards your question: there is no reason why the word
> ‘Bahá’í’ should not appear in the centre of a nine-pointed star on the
> tombstone of dear Elsa Vento, but the ring-stone emblem should not be
> used, nor the Greatest Name.” (From a letter written on behalf of the
> Guardian to an individual believer, September 30, 1955 - Lights of
> Guidance, p. 202)
> 
> ………. “The Universal House of Justice has received your letter of 22
> August 1975, about the marking of Bahá’í graves. We have been asked to
> tell you that nothing has been found in the Writings making this a
> requirement. However, in Bahá’í cemeteries in ’Akká and Haifa, the
> graves are marked and some of the words on the headstones are those of
> Bahá’u’lláh, ’Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi. As you know, Shoghi
> Effendi indicated that the Most Great Name would not be appropriate for
> gravestones and has suggested that such inscriptions as a nine-pointed
> star and extracts from the Writings would be suitable.
> 
> ………. [Letter written on behalf of the Universal House of Justice,
> dated November 13, 1975, to a in Australian Local Spiritual Assembly
> Handbook, p. 345, par. 12.6.4 and Compilations, National Spiritual
> Assembly USA {Developing Distinctive Bahá’í Communities}, 19:13) [.///]
> [.]- - - -
> 
> Page 14
> Burial of Infants and Children
> 
> The funeral and burial of Bahá’í babies and children follow the same
> procedures as those over the age of 15. Of course, the shrouding
> material required would be much less and would need to be estimated for
> each one. The Prayer for the Dead would not be read. But other readings,
> prayers and music can be used. These occasions are particularly
> difficult as a young life is taken before it has the opportunity to
> fully develop.
> 
> The words of ’Abdu’l-Bahá offer solace to the bereaved: “The
> inscrutable divine wisdom underlieth such heart-rending occurrences. It
> is as if a kind gardener transferreth a fresh and tender shrub from a
> confined place to a wide open area. This transfer is not the cause of
> the withering, the lessening or the destruction of that shrub; nay, on
> the contrary, it maketh it to grow and thrive, acquire freshness and
> delicacy, become green and bear fruit. This hidden secret is well known
> to the gardener, but those souls who are unaware of this bounty suppose
> that the gardener, in his anger and wrath, hath uprooted the shrub. Yet
> to those who are aware, this concealed fact is manifest, and this
> predestined decree is considered a bounty. Do not feel grieved or
> disconsolate…” (Selections from the Writings of Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 199-200)
> [.] Body Preparation
> 
> When the deceased passes away in a hospital, the staff usually washes
> and disinfects the body. It can be washed again using the procedure
> outlined.
> 
> Bahá’u’lláh confirmed the Báb’s provision that the body of the
> deceased should be wrapped in five sheets of silk or cotton, and added,
> “for those whose means are limited a single sheet of either fabric will
> suffice.” He also states that by “five sheets” is meant “five cloths.”
> Concerning the way to wrap the body, the Bahá’í Writings do not define
> this and, at present, the Bahá’ís are free to use their judgment in the
> matter. (See Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Notes pp. 229-230.)- - - -
> 
> Page 15
> 
> There is a type of cotton shroud outfit (pants, top, head covering)
> available from Jewish funeral homes and perhaps others. It might be
> easier to manage for some folks. If people wish, they can clad the body
> in these garments and then wrap a single piece of fabric over all. This
> method has been used by some Bahá’ís and Assemblies and seems in keeping
> with the spirit of the laws.
> 
> As we begin this loving service for our loved one or someone else’s
> dear departed, keep in mind that the law itself is quite simple. We are
> told what kind of cloth to use and what kind of casket to use. The rest
> is up to us, much like a Bahá’í marriage ceremony. The family may have
> made special requests: the picture of a loved one tucked into the folds
> of cloth; petals from the Shrines in the hand; a favorite fragrance to
> be used in anointing the body. Families from the Middle East are
> accustomed to leaving the face of the deceased uncovered, but it is
> acceptable to cover it. This is a saying good-bye, a leave-taking and
> each one is different and personal.
> 
> In the United States, funeral directors will offer ready assistance
> when one has questions or needs help. They are accustomed to requests of
> this nature because the Muslims, people of the Jewish Faith and some
> Christian sects also prepare the body for burial. The body may be
> prepared at home, but it could be easier to use the facilities at the
> funeral home. They have a room for this purpose equipped with all the
> necessary items. Call ahead to arrange a convenient time to prepare the
> body. If it has been refrigerated, ask that it be kept at room
> temperature for an hour or two prior to your arrival.
> 
> Some places require the use of a gown and mask to comply with
> governmental regulations. You will need to use a plastic apron and
> gloves. Check with the funeral director to find out what items are
> supplied. Two or three persons should be there to help and say prayers.
> 
> Page 16
> Items to take with you: * mild soap * shampoo * wash cloth and
> towels * paper towels
> 
> 2-3 clean disposable cloths for covering body parts
> 
> Attar of Roses or some other fragrance, if desired
> 
> the burial ring
> 
> 6 to 9 yards of white silk or cotton for wrapping, depending on
> the person’s size
> 
> scissors
> 
> ribbons or small fabric strips to secure the wraps
> 
> a prayer book
> 
> tape or CD player and some beautiful music
> 
> water or other beverage for participants [.]
> 
> Preparation of the wrapping cloth is best done beforehand. It is
> easier to cut the cloth in smaller pieces. Fold the entire piece in
> half, then take one of the halves and fold it in half, and [then] cut
> the fold. Then fold each cut half in half again, and cut at the fold.
> You will then have four pieces for the arms and legs. The longer piece
> will cover the torso and head. Some people leave the face uncovered;
> others cover it. There is no prescribed method.
> 
> Before moving the covering [that has been used by the funeral parlor]
> from the body, you may wish to say prayers and prepare yourselves
> spiritually. The body, in all likelihood, will not appear as you may
> expect. Blood, which is no longer being pumped through the body, pools
> in the lowest part. Some parts may appear bruised, mottled or purplish,
> but this is natural. Rigor mortis sets in from 4-8 hours after death;
> usually no longer than 12 hours. It leaves- - - -
> 
> Page 17
> 
> 24-36 hours after death, but can be broken by moving body parts prior
> to that time. Be aware that body wastes may be eliminated, perhaps
> resulting in some unpleasant odors. These must be cleaned away and you
> can request help with this from the facility’s personnel. There could be
> unexpected noise or movement of the body, which is perfectly normal and
> doesn’t mean the person is still alive.
> 
> Using the hose provided, shampoo the hair and comb it. Then continue
> to wash the rest of the body with mild soap, rinsing and drying
> carefully. Keep the private parts of the body covered before and after
> washing. The body can then be anointed, if desired.
> 
> Two, three or more persons are needed to assist with wrapping. There
> is no specific way to do this. Some begin with covering the entire body
> with one piece of cloth. Others start with the limbs first, beginning
> with the fingers and working toward the shoulder; then each leg starting
> at the toes. Beginning with the end of the cloth at the feet, they roll
> the body to one side, place the cloth under it, lift the other side to
> pull the cloth under the body then move it up over the head, depending
> on whether or not you want to cover the face. It could be wrapped just
> around the torso and then brought up just to cover the head. Use the
> ribbons or fabric strips to tie where necessary to keep the wrap in
> place.
> 
> Funeral personnel will transfer the body to the casket and remove it
> to where it will be transported or to the parlor in which the service
> will be held. (See Section on Actual Examples of Body Preparation.)
> Funeral staff will also transport the body directly to the gravesite if
> a service will be held there instead of in the mortuary.- - - -
> 
> Page 18
> 
> Obtaining the Death Certificate
> 
> The death certificate is obtained through the Bureau of Vital
> Statistics in the County Health Department in most cases. Usually this
> same department issues a burial permit which must be obtained before
> burial can take place. It is a good idea to get several certified copies
> of the death certificate at the same time because copies will be needed
> for insurance purposes. probate when required, closing accounts of the
> deceased, etc. [.] Special Circumstances
> 
> In cases of sudden, accidental death, homicide or suicide, the
> coroner always performs an autopsy. This is also true in the case of
> younger persons experiencing sudden unexplained death. The office does
> not necessarily embalm the victim, but the family needs to make it clear
> that they do not wish the body to be embalmed. The Coroner’s Office can
> refrigerate the body for a day or two, which is long enough to perform
> the autopsy and release the body for burial. (The results of the autopsy
> may not be available for some time afterward.) Bahá’ís may then prepare
> the body for the funeral services.
> 
> When elderly people pass away at home an autopsy is usually not
> required whether or not they have been under a doctor’s care. The
> procedure is to call Law Enforcement officials (the Police Department in
> a City, or the Sheriff’s Office in the County) and if they do not see
> anything suspicious in their investigation of the death, the Coroner is
> asked to come and issue a death certificate. When Hospice has been
> involved with a terminally ill patient there is usually no autopsy
> performed.
> 
> If a patient dies in the hospital, the doctor will usually issue the
> death certificate based upon his/her knowledge of- - - -
> 
> Page 19
> 
> the patient’s condition. It is not possible to prepare a body for
> burial in the hospital as there are no facilities for this. The staff
> washes and disinfects the body prior to its removal. If a deceased
> person dies alone and is not found for two or more days, body
> preparation by the believers is not recommended because decomposition
> has already begun. This might also apply in case of accident victims or
> any kind of violent death where there is disfigurement of the body.
> Morticians are more prepared to perform this service but must be
> informed of our requirement not to embalm. Perhaps observers would be
> allowed to offer prayers during this procedure. [.] Organ Donation
> 
> “We have not come across anything specific in the writings on
> transplants of hearts and other organs or regarding the time of death,
> and the Universal House of Justice does not wish to make any statements
> on these points at this time.” (From a Letter to the National Spiritual
> Assembly of Argentina, September 18, 1968.)
> 
> The Guardian, in a letter dated September 6, 1946 written on his
> behalf states, “There is nothing in the teachings which would forbid a
> Bahá’í to bequeath his eyes to another person or for a hospital; on the
> contrary it seems a noble thing to do.” Of course any transplanted organ
> then belongs to the recipient and the stipulation about cremation and an
> hour’s journey are not applicable to that individual, unless they are a
> Baha’i.
> 
> In {Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies} [Developing Distinctive
> Bahá’í Communities], page 18.10, a letter written on behalf of the
> Guardian addresses the possibility of using one’s body in service to
> mankind after death and states clearly that Bahá’ís who do this should
> stipulate that their remains not be cremated or taken more than an
> hour’s journey from the place of death for burial. When organs (heart,
> lung, kidneys, etc.) are donated, removal must be done by a surgeon
> under supervision in a hospital. If a person dies elsewhere- - - -
> 
> Page 20
> 
> the cost of transport to the hospital for this person is borne by the
> estate of the deceased. The costs of removal and transport to the
> recipient are borne by the recipient.
> 
> Eyes, tissues and inner ear may be removed at the mortuary by the
> Transplant Bank. Arrangements must be made directly with the institution
> involved.
> 
> If the whole body is donated for medical research, arrangements must
> be made ahead with the institution to which it will go, with the
> stipulation that the remains not be cremated nor transported more than
> an hour from the place of death. Immediate refrigeration must be
> requested at the funeral home pending completion of the death
> certificate, which is required prior to transport. Telephone numbers
> where one can get information: 1-800-355-SHARE (355-7427) and
> 1-800-55-DONOR (553-6667)
> 
> Regional Donor Organizations exist throughout the country. One of the
> above references should be able to put you in touch with one in your
> area. There may be some age considerations, as well, so it is important
> to explore this subject in advance.- - - -
> 
> Page 21
> Loving Care for the
> Bereaved
> 
> The Assembly may wish to compile a list of support services to assist
> the grieving individual(s). Such services are provided through the Dept.
> of Aging, hospitals, and some mortuaries, etc. Of course, the help
> offered must be acceptable to the bereaved. Showing loving friendship in
> a number of ways is very helpful. One may suggest just talking, going to
> a movie, going out to dinner, or some other activity, not necessarily a
> Bahá’í event. The respect and care shown to a grieving person is a very
> important aspect of service at the time of death. This support is even
> more critical in the event of sudden, unexpected death.
> 
> An individual trained to provide this support is highly recommended
> for Assemblies. Such training is available through AARP, (The American
> Association of Retired Persons) and through the other agencies mentioned
> in the preceding paragraph. Many times people are reluctant to offer
> assistance to the bereaved because they don’t know what to say. And many
> times unthinking comments are made, such as “Oh, he/she is much better
> off now.” The grieving person is faced with the ensuing loneliness that
> follows a separation, so comments should be sincere and show concern for
> the welfare of the person. Offers to help with needed chores are usually
> welcome.
> 
> Many individuals do not know what to say to a grief-stricken person.
> But the person needs support at this moment and for a time to come. The
> worst thing is to say nothing and to stay away from the bereaved one for
> fear of saying or doing the wrong thing. Being there physically is very
> helpful, as is a kind note sent with expressions of sympathy. A simple
> gesture of placing your hand over your heart expresses more than words
> can say. Offers of help are welcome, or even looking around to see what
> needs doing and pitching in to do it.- - - -
> 
> Page 22
> 
> Answering phone calls is a considerate way of helping. Be sure to
> include children in loving actions. While the very young child may not
> completely understand what has happened, he or she is very much aware
> that something really serious is going on and they need to be assured
> and loved. They will have questions about death and it is important to
> listen to them and answer them honestly in a way that is appropriate for
> the age of the child.
> 
> During the months following the death, the Assembly might wish to
> designate a committee or individuals to provide continuous support.
> Grieving is a process that must take place, even though we are all aware
> that the parting is temporary and the person has gone to a more
> wonderful place. Too frequently those who lose loved ones are left to
> their own devices to grieve and are sometimes expected to be over it
> quickly and resume a normal life. This doesn’t usually happen right away
> and each individual has his/her own timeline for dealing with grief.
> 
> When visiting, one needs to help the griever remember the loved one.
> Listen to whatever he/she wants to talk about and be completely
> non-judgmental. Above all, don’t say things like, “It’s better this
> way,” in the case of someone who has suffered a long time before dying,
> or in other cases, “Don’t worry, you’ll find someone else” or “I know
> how you feel” (because you really don’t!). There are some fine books on
> this subject that can be very helpful.
> 
> One can feel abandoned during the grieving process. An invitation to
> lunch, dinner, o a movie can help lift the person out of a depression
> that sometimes follows bereavement. Offer loving support and be
> understanding of the fact that everyone grieves in their own way and at
> their own pace. While some may recover quickly, others take more time.
> There is no set rule on how long each individual should take to grieve
> and each should be helped to feel that it’s all right to take whatever
> span of time is needed.- - - -
> 
> Page 23
> 
> A Compassionate Service for the
> Terminally Ill
> 
> The Chalice of Repose Project, Inc. is a unique end-of-life patient
> care program begun in Denver, Colorado in 1992 and is now based at
> St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, Montana.
> 
> The service they provide was featured on a Dateline Program in
> December, 1998. Soothing, beautiful harp music is played to help ease
> the loneliness and fear of dying.
> 
> ………. “In wintry Montana, where the mountains meet the big sky, the
> idea of these people with harps and heavenly voices guiding the dying
> more gently into that great good night … a little too sweet and the
> notion of music as good medicine, too good to be true … consider this:
> the hospital has made a place for this program … because they’ve seen it
> work…
> 
> ………. “I can watch this kind of change that begins to occur after the
> music is being played,” says Dr. Speckert, “and have a very strong sense
> that the anguish and discomfort they’re having which includes pain, is
> relaxed and softened…. We have shown in several cases where the amount
> of medicine that is required after is significantly less than what it
> was.”
> 
> You can access information and purchase harp music from their web
> site at http://www.saintpatrick.org/chalice.html
> 
> Many similar services are available in other areas of the country.
> Having a music CD of beautiful harp music on hand for persons who are
> ill is a beautiful way of providing comfort. Saying prayers with the
> music in the background frequently results in a very peaceful and
> beautiful passing from this earthly life.- - - -
> 
> Page 24 [
> Advance
> Directives
> 
> Instructions about the medical care one wants if unable to speak for
> oneself are in two main types. A LIVING WILL is used to provide
> instructions for medical care if you become terminally ill and are
> unable to express your wishes, such as which life-sustaining treatment
> you would or would not want. A HEALTH CARE POWER OF ATTORNEY is a
> document that appoints an agent or proxy to make decisions about your
> medical care if you become unable to make decisions about your medical
> care if you become unable to make those decisions. A DURABLE POWER OF
> ATTORNEY appoints a person to take charge of all of your affairs. It
> would be a good idea to consult an attorney when you wish to execute
> these documents.
> 
> Make your wishes known. There have been some cases where Living Wills
> have been disregarded and fights to enforce them have ensued. Here are
> some tips:
> 
> Discuss your wishes with family members, doctors and
> caregivers.
> 
> Avoid generic advance directive forms; complete and update
> documents with doctor’s input.
> 
> Pick a health-care agent or proxy who will act aggressively on
> your behalf; the person closest to you may not always be the best
> choice.
> 
> Sign and date each directive and have it witnessed according to
> the laws in your state.
> 
> Put copies of your directives with your medical records and make
> them available to family and care providers.
> 
> Chose a new doctor if yours is not willing to abide by your
> wishes.- - - -
> 
> Page 25
> Preparing for Life’s End Stage
> 
> It may seem a formidable task to organize our personal and financial
> information, but it is an act of loving service for our loved ones. It
> not only can be a great help in our own planning, and be invaluable for
> family members or care givers in the event of death or disability. As we
> age or if other unforeseen circumstances occur at any age it may be
> necessary for someone to assist us with managing our affairs. Having
> vital information already organized makes the task so much simpler. Two
> separate files will suffice to provide the needed information: one for
> Personal Records, the other for Financial Records. Suggested contents
> for each one follow: . PERSONAL RECORDS (1) Full legal name (2) Date and
> place of birth (3) Mother’s legal name (4) Father’s legal name (5)
> Address of my legal residence (6) Social Security number
> 
> Location of birth certificate, certificate of marriage,
> citizenship, adoption, divorce, etc.
> 
> Marital status (married, separated, divorced, widow/er,
> remarried, never married)
> 
> Health insurance information
> 
> Education and military records
> 
> Name and addresses of spouse and children (or location of death
> certificates is they are deceased)
> 
> Name of pet and veterinarian
> 
> List of medications you take
> 
> Name and phone number of your primary care physician- - - -
> 
> Page
> 26
> 
> Name and phone number of nearest Spiritual Assembly and/or
> Auxiliary Board Member
> 
> Names and addresses of relatives and close friends
> 
> Volunteer commitments
> 
> List of employers and dates of employment (a copy of resume may
> suffice)
> 
> Membership in organizations and awards received
> 
> Location of Will or Trust, Living Will, Power of Attorney and/or
> Health-Care Durable Power of Attorney
> 
> Location of Safe Deposit Box, number, key and contents
> 
> Organ and Tissue Donation arrangements
> 
> Location of a Burial Kit if you have one
> 
> Requests, preferences or prearrangements for burial
> 
> Where I would like memorial gifts to be made . FINANCIAL
> RECORDS:
> 
> Sources of all income and assets (pensions, interest,
> etc.)
> 
> Debts owed to me
> 
> Social Security and Medicare information
> 
> Retirement plans and who to contact, name(s) of 401K
> beneficiary(ies)
> 
> Mortgage information, deeds, payment records
> 
> Property Tax information
> 
> Liabilities–approximate amounts owed to whom and list of credit
> card numbers, account numbers and 800 numbers
> 
> Utility and other monthly payments
> 
> Investment income (stocks, bonds, property) and stockbroker’s
> contact information
> 
> Insurance information (auto, life, health and property) with
> policy numbers, name(s) of beneficiary(ies)- - - -
> 
> Page 27
> 
> Bank accounts (checking, savings, credit union with account
> numbers)
> 
> Location of Car Title
> 
> List and location of all valuables and personal items
> 
> Location, number(s) and contents of safe deposit box(es);
> location of key(s)
> 
> Copy of Will or Trust
> 
> Copy of most recent income tax return with name and phone number
> of your accountant or person who prepares your taxes
> 
> Location of previous income tax records)
> 
> A record of previous payments of Huququ’llah so that additional
> liability can be determined
> 
> some people, especially the elderly or those with disabilities,
> may find it a good strategy to have a joint checking account with a
> trusted close relative. Funds are quickly frozen upon the death of the
> account holder and will not be available until a certain period of time
> elapses, depending upon the size of the estate and individual state laws
> regarding probate. The joint account holder can access required funds by
> going immediately to the financial institution without delay prior to
> the time the funds become inaccessible. In some cases this could prevent
> unnecessary financial hardship for survivors. [.]
> 
> Note: The priority of payments form the estate is: (1) First: Burial
> Expense
> 
> Second: Debts (credit card balances are not required to be paid by
> survivors)
> 
> Third: Unpaid Huququ’llah- - - -
> 
> Page 28
> 
> Suggested Checklist for Survivors
> 
> Decide place and time of funeral service
> 
> Submit obituary with time and place of service
> 
> Name a suitable charity for memorial gifts
> 
> Notify all relatives and friends of deceased
> 
> Arrange hospitality for visiting relatives
> 
> Arrange childcare if needed
> 
> Keep a record of all phone calls, visits, food, offers of help
> (have someone assist with this)
> 
> Coordinate food needed for family members and reception following
> burial
> 
> Coordinate household chores
> 
> Notify executor and/or attorney
> 
> Send acknowledgements of rememberances
> 
> Check debts and payments due
> 
> If deceased was living alone, protect valuables and take
> precautions against intruders
> 
> Provide for care of pets and houseplants
> 
> Cancel subscriptions, newspapers, magazines, e-mail, internet
> accounts, cable TV, credit cards if needed
> 
> Deal with utilities, landlord, post office, yard or household
> help
> 
> Arrange for disposition of medical devices, prescriptions,
> etc.
> 
> Find someone to assist spouse or other close relatives as the
> need arises to take care of any remaining details and errands
> 
> Notify National Spiritual Assembly of the death and submit
> biography of the deceased if desired- - - -
> 
> Page 29
> Excerpted from a Poem for
> Shoghi Effendi by Amatu’l-Baha Ruhiyyih Khanum “Poems for the Passing,”
> pp. 2-3 . I gazed upon his blessed face And never saw a beauty so
> sublime – It was my last look for all time – In agony and joy. I laid
> him in his second shroud And carpeted his sleeping form with flowers
> From Holy Places inmost bowers A cloak of love. I tucked the petals in
> his hands And laid the soft white silk so warm Over all his treasured
> form – Across his face. My love, I tucked you in for aye And on your
> breast a crimson rose With what prayer and kiss God knows – I gently
> laid.- - - -
> 
> Page 30
> Actual Examples of Body Preparation
> 
> ………. This first account is of the funeral of Dr. Esslemont, the
> author of {Bahá’u’lláh and the New Era}, as written on page 41 in
> {Unfolding Destiny}, by Shoghi Effendi [a compilation of letters written
> by Shoghi Effendi and letters written on his behalf, compiled by the
> Bahá’ís of the British Isles] [.]
> 
> “Hard as it was for everyone who had known Dr. Esslemont to see him
> pass away and to realise what a great loss it means to the friends the
> world over, we can find no greater consolation than in the happy thought
> that he now lies in peace and his soul where it so loved to be. Beyond
> all earthly cares, all pains and sorrows his soul dwells forever.
> 
> “The funeral service was both simple and touching. His body was
> washed by two of the friends, dressed and wrapped in white silk cloth
> and perfumed by attar of roses. On his finger Shoghi Effendi placed his
> own Bahá’í ring which he had worn for a good many years. Laid in a
> simple casket of walnut and placed in the hall of the Pilgrim House, the
> friends gathered together and said their funeral prayer over him. The
> casket was carried for a short distance by Shoghi Effendi and then
> placed in the Master’s carriage and accompanied by the sons-in-law of
> the Master it slowly wound its way, followed by eleven other cabs
> carrying the friends, to the foot of Mt. Carmel. There it was laid to
> rest in that beautifully-situated cemetery, and flowers from the garden
> of the Master’s home were scattered over his grave. Simple as he was in
> his life and character, equally simple was his funeral service. And yet
> just as in the simplicity of his character lay his many virtues, in like
> manner did the simplicity of that service sink into every heart and fill
> every eye with tears.”- - - -
> 
> Page 31
> 
> ………. This account is from an experience shared by Karin Ferguson,
> Montreal, Canada [.]
> 
> “We were pioneering in Barbados at the time when one of our dear
> pioneers was hit by a bus while she was on her motor scooter. Her body
> was quite badly damaged, God bless her. Her name was Sandy Lee, single,
> age 29. She died 13 years ago this month during the Fast. She had two
> Masters degrees … and indeed was such a darling soul and very dedicated
> to the Faith.
> 
> “We started with a round of prayers. There were three women preparing
> the body. Each of us had clean sponges and a small tub of clean warm
> water. One started at the top of her face at the hair line, working
> down. One started at her midriff working down and the other started at
> the top of her legs, working down, and we cleaned her body from top to
> bottom. We didn’t roll the body over to wash her but sort of lifted a
> bit as we were washing and washed”around” so to speak. So, we had the
> body all cleaned up. (This, by the way, was at the funeral parlor and
> the Mortician was absolutely enthralled that we would do this and loved
> the idea of it all.) Then one of us brushed her hair backwards.
> 
> “We than had about 7 or 9 yards of pure white cotton and we started
> to wrap it around her body like a Sari. We even wrapped it around her
> head, leaving her face bare like the East Indian women do. We had a
> whole small bottle of Attar of Ruses, which we sprinkled all over from
> top to bottom - - on her neck, her arms, her body, her feet, her hair,
> so this body smelled of heaven. Between her lips, someone put rose
> petals which had been at the Shrine of the Báb or Bahá’u’lláh. On the
> little finger of her right hand, we put on the ring that says”From God
> we have come and to Him we shall return.” You can buy them written in
> English or Arabic.- - - -
> 
> Page 32
> 
> “After that, the mortician came in with his helper. The got right up
> on the slab where Sandi’s (sic) body lay, and slid two large canvas
> straps, one at her feet and one up around her shoulders. Then they both
> lifted the body at the same time into the coffin which was beside the
> slab.
> 
> “Half way through all this, Sandi’s (sic) mother came in to watch
> what we were doing, and she was very touched by the respect and
> prayerful attitude of those who were loving preparing the body. When we
> finished, we had another prayer for Sandi (sic) and the family she left
> behind.
> 
> “After the body was put into the coffin, it was wheeled into the
> Chapel of the Funeral Home and the Service was held there.”- - - -
> 
> Page 33
> 
> ………. The next experience is related by Cindy Adlparvar [.]
> 
> “The act that has been most important to me as a loving friend and/or
> family member has been in cleaning the body. One imagines that the
> normal undertaker will treat the body with a business like disdain, with
> little humanity and love. When family or friends perform the task, it is
> with love, gentleness and prayer.
> 
> “I have always asked the funeral home personnel for permission to be
> alone with the body (usually with one or two others to help). Practical
> tip: If the body has been in the cooler for a day or more, ask the
> funeral home personnel to ‘warm’ the body a bit - - leaving it out for a
> couple of hours before you arrive. Before pulling back the covering
> sheet, we say prayers together. You may be expecting he translucent pale
> color of the skin, which we already associate with death. You may not be
> aware that the blood in the body, no longer being pumped around, pools
> in the lowest part of the body. This means that the back and back of the
> legs will have all the blood and its color. It makes a bruise-like mark,
> mottled and purplish in color. Don’t think that they were abused! It is
> natural.
> 
> “The first job is to wash the face and hair, and then wash the body.
> To wash, you have two options. Firstly you can use the hose (most
> funeral homes have this available.) You can work on the job one small
> part at a time. Wet a part of the body,, use a liquid soap on a wash
> cloth (usually provided by the funeral home along with some form of
> sanitary disposal) and rinse with the hose, gently. The other way is to
> use damp disposable cloths. We always clean part by part, covering he
> private parts out of respect until they are worked on, then recovered. I
> had a tip from a kind person in a mortuary once – use cotton (they
> usually will supply you with rolls of cotton wadding like long strips of
> cotton balls) to cover all openings of the body after they are cleaned.
> There are still fluids- - - -
> 
> Page 34
> 
> in the body that may drain out. Depending on the condition of the
> body at death, there may be the need to deal with feces or blood.
> 
> “Remember that you need to observe strict hygiene during these
> procedures. Gloves must be worn, disposable or professionally washed
> towels used, and you will likely want your hair back and an apron on, as
> it is common that there is splashing of water and fluids during the
> cleaning process, and there is a bacterial danger in handling any body
> fluids improperly.
> 
> “When the body is clean, you will perfume it. I have used rose water
> - - we had to rub it over the entire body, and still we found that
> because the body was so cold, the smell was not what we had hoped for.
> We have had better success with oil of rose - - available at health
> food/alternative or aromatherapy type stores, which held a wonderful
> scent and it was not necessary to use too much. I have also used
> commercial scent, but was not as happy with that as I was with the oil
> of rose. Oil of Rose made me think of the holy Shrines, which was for me
> the best memory to have at that time … of course you may experiment as
> you see fit; however it is in the instructions to perfume the body. At
> this point make sure that you have put cotton over the eyes in
> preparation for the cloth.
> 
> “The Aqdas states that one needs to use either pure white cotton or
> silk, in either one or 5 pieces. In all cases, I have used 5 pieces, and
> in most cases I have used cotton. On one occasion, I chose to use cotton
> for the 4 shorter pieces with silk for the final outer cover. I feel
> that this is a family decision, based on cost and family desires. Silk,
> even at a discount, may become prohibitive, while even cotton will be
> quite expensive. I measure them according to the person we are burying.
> Now, this part is based on personal assumption, for I have never seen
> anywhere (and believe me I have searched through all kinds of things and
> had other who were well acquainted with- - - -
> 
> Page 35
> 
> the Writings in Arabic and Persian look, too) any explanation of how
> to wrap these pieces.
> 
> “Based on the following explanation, you will need to estimate the
> lengths of the cloth needed, adding an allowance for tie pieces. We have
> used 15 yards for my diminutive grandmother and as much as 30 yards for
> my brother-in-law, who was 6’ 4”. The process that we use is as follows:
> We have always taken one piece and lain it under the person’s right arm,
> the beginning part of the cloth overlapping the shoulder partially. Then
> we bring the cloth up over the fingers and back to the shoulder along
> the top of the arm. Then I fold the excess cloth from the bottom up and
> over the top of the arm, tucking it in under the top piece, similarly to
> the way you might wrap a package. I then take the top cloth and bring it
> round towards the bottom, wrapping first one side, then the other
> around. We use cut strips of the cloth as ties to gently tie around the
> top part of the arm and the forearm. The arm now looks like it is
> wrapped up, open ended onto the shoulder area. Complete the left arm as
> the first with the second length of cloth. Using the third and fourth,
> wrap each leg likewise. Now you have used 4 of the pieces.
> 
> “The final piece wraps the entire body. At this point you have a body
> with all 4 limbs wrapped, the torso open. By rolling the body to one
> side and placing the cloth under it, then switching to lifting the other
> side and pulling the cloth over to the other side, bring the final piece
> of cloth from the feet to the head under the body, then wrap around the
> top of the head and over the top of the body to the bottom. The head
> should be closed, with the ends of the lot at the feet.
> 
> “Starting at the head and neck, as you did with the other pieces,
> bring the bottom fabric up and tuck it under the top fabric. You will
> find that as you do the shoulders, the fabric will have the tendency to
> slip apart and that you have to place a tie at the neck. Do this gently
> and tie a bow tie, not a knot. Continue to wrap down the lenth (sic) of
> the body, tying off- - - -
> 
> Page 36
> 
> at the hips or top of the legs and at the ankles. Place the bottom
> end of the cloth up, over the feet, then the top down and over it. Make
> sure that there is enough cloth to bring that length over the feet and
> past he ankles so the final tie closes the feet cleanly. The body is now
> fully wrapped. [.]
> 
> “It is of utmost importance to estimate the length of the cloth
> generously. Include the ties in your estimation. A wide width of fabric
> also helps for he final process. There would be nothing worse than not
> being able to finish because of inadequate fabric! At this point, we
> clean up and say prayers together. This is a powerful time, as the body
> is now respectfully and lovingly prepared to go to the earth. There is
> such a sense of joy. Throughout the process we have had loving
> conversations with and about our friend/loved one. Now is a time to say
> a final good-bye and to know that never again will anyone offer and
> service to them in this form. There is a wonderful feeling of closure
> and service in this act.”- - - -
> 
> Page 37
> 
> Note: In this last example you will see that the yardage used is
> quite a bit more than is mentioned in earlier examples. Since there is
> no specific mention of the amount of cloth used for shrouding, it is
> left to the individual(s) to decide what is required in each instance.
> [.] Sources of Fabric Here are possible sources for fabrics: Thai Silks,
> 1-800-722-7455 Super Silk, 1-800-432-7455
> 
> Explore your local fabric stores and the Internet for more sources.
> Page 38
> Quotations on the Nature of the Soul
> 
> ………. “The world beyond is as different from this world as this world
> is different from that of the child while still in the womb of its
> mother. When the soul attaineth the Presence of God, it will assume the
> form that best befitteth its immortality and is worthy of its celestial
> habitation.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings 157) [.]
> 
> ………. “The honor with which the Hand of Mercy will invest the soul is
> such as no tongue can adequately reveal, nor any other earthly agency
> describe. Blessed is the soul which, at the hour of its separation from
> the body, is sanctified from the vain imaginings of the peoples of the
> world. Such a soul liveth and moveth in accordance with the Will of its
> Creator, and entereth the all-highest Paradise. The Maids of Heaven,
> inmates of the loftiest mansions, will circle around it, and the
> Prophets of God and His chosen ones will seek its companionship. With
> them that soul will freely converse, and will recount unto them that
> which it hath been made to endure in the path of God, the Lord of all
> worlds. If any man be told that which hath been ordained for such a soul
> in the worlds of God, the Lord of the throne on high and of earth below,
> his whole being will instantly blaze out in his great longing to attain
> that most exalted, that sanctified and resplendent station…. The nature
> of the soul after death can never be described, nor is it meet and
> permissible to reveal its whole character to the eyes of men.”
> Bahá’u’lláh [Gleanings, 156] [.]
> 
> ………. “Know thou of a truth that the soul, after its separation from
> the body, will continue to progress until it attaineth the presence of
> God, in a state and condition which neither the revolution of ages and
> centuries, nor the changes and chances of this world, can alter. It will
> endure as long as the Kingdom of God, His sovereignty, His dominion and
> power will endure. It will manifest the signs of God and His attributes,
> and will reveal His loving-kindness and bounty. The movement of My Pen
> is- - - -
> 
> Page 39
> 
> stilled when it attempteth to befittingly describe the loftiness and
> glory of so exalted a station. The honor with which the Hand of Mercy
> will invest the soul is such as no tongue can adequately reveal, nor any
> other earthly agency describe.” (Bahá’u’lláh: Gleanings, 155-156)- - - -
> 
> Page
> 40
> PRAYERS FOR THE DEPARTED [Obligatory Prayer for the Dead] [For
> Bahá’ís 15 years or older]
> 
> O my God! This is Thy servant and the son of Thy servant who hath
> believed in Thee and in Thy signs, and set his face towards Thee, wholly
> detached from all except Thee. Thou art, verily, of those who show mercy
> the most merciful.
> 
> Deal with him, O Thou Who forgivest the sins of men and concealest
> their faults, as beseemeth the heaven of Thy bounty and the ocean of Thy
> grace. Grant him admission within the precincts of Thy transcendent
> mercy that was before the foundation of earth and heaven. There is no
> God but Thee, the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Generous.
> 
> ………. (Let him, then, repeat six times[1] the greeting “Allah-u-Abha,”
> and then repeat nineteen times each of the following verses:)
> 
> …………… [1. That is, say “Allah-u-Abha” once, followed by the first
> verse below being said 19 times. Then say “Allah-u-Abha” again (the
> second time), followed by the second verse below being said 19 times,
> etc., until the six verses have all been said 19 times, each preceded by
> the invocation, “Allah-u-Abha.”] We all, verily, worship God. We all,
> verily, bow down before God. We all, verily, are devoted unto God. We
> all, verily, give praise unto God. We all, verily, yield thanks unto
> God. We all, verily, are patient in God.
> 
> ……….If the dead be a woman, let him say: This is Thy handmaiden and
> the daughter of Thy handmaiden, etc. …)
> 
> …………… Bahá’u’lláh (Prayers and Meditations, pp. 260-261) [- - -]- - - -
> 
> Page
> 41
> 
> (In addition to the prayer on the preceding page, which is part of
> the Bahá’í funeral service [graveside – before interment], these are
> among the other prayers for the departed that are frequently used in
> remembering the deceased. They may be used at any time.) [.]
> 
> ……….O my God! O Thou forgiver of sins, bestower of gifts, dispeller
> of afflictions!
> 
> ………. Verily, I beseech Thee to forgive the sins of such as have
> abandoned the physical garment and have ascended to the spiritual
> world.
> 
> ………. O my Lord! Purify them from trespasses, dispel their sorrows,
> and change their darkness into light. Cause them to enter the garden of
> happiness, cleanse them with the most pure water, and grant them to
> behold Thy splendors on the loftiest mount.
> 
> ……………’Abdu’l-Bahá (Bahá’í Prayers (US edition), pp. 45-46) [.]
> 
> ………. O my God! O my God! Verily Thy servant, humble before the
> majesty of Thy divine supremacy, lowly at the door of Thy oneness, hath
> believed in Thee and in Thy verses, hath testified to Thy word, hath
> been enkindled with the fire of Thy love, hath been immersed in the
> depths of the ocean of Thy knowledge, hath been attracted by Thy
> breezes, hath relied upon Thee, hath turned his face to Thee, hath
> offered his supplications to Thee, and hath been assured of Thy pardon
> and forgiveness. He hath abandoned this mortal life and hath flown to
> the kingdom of immortality, yearning for the favour of meeting Thee.
> 
> ………. O Lord, glorify his station, shelter him under the pavilion of
> Thy supreme mercy, cause him to enter Thy glorious paradise, and
> perpetuate his existence in Thine exalted rose garden, that he may
> plunge into the sea of light in the world of mysteries.
> 
> ………. Verily, Thou art the Generous, the Powerful, the Forgiver and
> the Bestower.
> 
> ……………’Abdu’l-Bahá (Selections from the Writings of ’Abdu’l-Bahá,
> pp. 196-197) [.]
> 
> ………. O Thou peerless Lord! Let this suckling babe be nursed from the
> breast of Thy loving-kindness, guard it within the cradle of Thy safety
> and protection and grant that it be reared in the arms of Thy tender
> affection. ……………’Abdu’l-Bahá- - - -
> 
> Page 42
> 
> ………. O God! Rear this little babe in the bosom of Thy love, and give
> it milk from the breast of Thy Providence. Cultivate this fresh plant in
> the rose garden of Thy love and aid it to grow through the showers of
> Thy bounty. Make it a child of the kingdom, and lead it to Thy heavenly
> realm. Thou art powerful and kind, and Thou art the Bestower, the
> Generous, the Lord of surpassing bounty.
> 
> ……………’Abdu’l-Bahá (Bahá’í Prayers, p. 34) [.]
> 
> ………. O Thou kind Lord! I am a little child, exalt me by admitting me
> to the kingdom. I am earthly, make me heavenly; I am of the world below,
> let 36 me belong to the realm above; gloomy, suffer me to become
> radiant; material, make me spiritual, and grant that I may manifest
> Thine infinite bounties. ………. Thou art the Powerful, the All-Loving.
> 
> …………… ’Abdu’l-Bahá (Bahá’í Prayers, p. 35) [.]
> 
> ………. Lord! I bear witness that in Thy servant Thou hast reposed Thy
> Trust, and that is the Spirit wherewith Thou hast given life to the
> world.
> 
> ………. I ask of Thee by the splendor of the Orb of Thy Revelation,
> mercifully to accept from him that which he hath achieved in Thy days.
> Grant then that he may be invested with the glory of Thy good-pleasure
> and adorned with Thine acceptance.
> 
> ………. O my Lord! I myself and all created things bear witness unto Thy
> might, and I pray Thee not to 43 turn away from Thyself this spirit that
> hath ascended unto Thee, unto Thy heavenly place, Thine exalted Paradise
> and Thy retreats of nearness, O Thou who art the Lord of all men!
> 
> ………. Grant, then, O my God, that Thy servant may consort with Thy
> chosen ones, Thy saints and Thy Messengers in heavenly places that the
> pen cannot tell nor the tongue recount.
> 
> ………. O My Lord, the poor one hath verily hastened unto the Kingdom of
> Thy wealth, the stranger unto his home within Thy precincts, he that is
> sore athirst to the heavenly river of Thy bounty. Deprive him not, O
> Lord, from his share of the banquet of Thy grace and from the favor of
> Thy bounty. Thou art in truth the Almighty, the Gracious, the
> All-Bountiful.
> 
> ……………Bahá’u’lláh, (Bahá’í Prayers, p. 42)- - - -
> 
> Page 43
> Glossary- - - -
> 
> Page
> 44
> 
> Some Suggested References Kitáb-i-Aqdas, Bahá’u’lláh
> 
> Unto Him Shall We Return, compiled by Hushidar Motlagh The Odyssey of
> the Soul, Artemus Lamb
> 
> Life, Death and Immortorality, compiled by Terrill G. Hayes, betty J.
> Fisher, Richard A. Hill, Terry J. Cassiday Death the Messenger of Joy,
> Madeleine Hellab The Open Door, Bahá’í Publishing Trust
> 
> Guidelines for Spiritual Assemblies [Developing Distinctive Bahá’í
> Communities] Lights of Guidance, compiled by Helen Hornby
> 
> A Workbook for Understanding, Appreciating and Applying the Law of
> Huququ’llah, compiled by Dr. Allan Waters
> 
> National Bahá’í website: www.usbnc.org under the alphabetical listing
> “Bahá’í Funerals”
> 
> METADATA
> 
> Views2836 views since posted 2025-10-31; last edit 2025-10-31 04:09 UTC;
> 
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> — *A Guide to Baha'i Funeral and Burial Practices (Used by permission of the curator)*