Sikhing Answers
Why do we Invite the Sangat to a Funeral Bhog?
Sikhing Answers - XXX
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TODAY'S QUESTION - # 30
Is it necessary to invite the 'world' to a funeral bhog?
Why do we have such a large sangat at a funeral? Why can't it be private? Shouldn't it be private?
Do we need a crowd of friends and relatives from far and wide at a time of deep, personal loss and grief? Why do we need more than immediate family and close friends?
What purpose does it serve?
Posted on July 14, 2012
Closing Date: July 21, 2012
Conversation about this article
1: Inder Kaur (Patiala, Punjab), July 16, 2012, 6:14 AM.
The reason why the community gathers around the bereaving family is to share in the loss, sorrow and grief. Pain, when shared, is easier to handle, and borne more easily. By supporting the family, and letting them know through action and actual presence, rather than mere words, we convey to the ones bearing the brunt of the loss that they are not alone, that the community is there, and always will be there, to help if needed. It's in these times, not just the good times, that we must be there to share and lessen the burden.
2: Charandeep Singh (Chandigarh, Punjab), August 08, 2012, 12:43 PM.
I wish to add to what Inder Kaur ji has written. We Sikhs believe that this world is transient. A Sikh - a gurumukh, after spending his/her life goes to Him (the Almighty). We pray to the Lord to accept the soul. As such, friends and family gather and join in prayer together.
3: Sukhdave (Alor Star, Kedah, Malaysia (Currently in Beijing)), November 21, 2012, 8:42 PM.
Emotional support and to learn from the positive values / deeds of the departed person as an inspiration for our own life.
4: Bob Dhesi (Surrey, British Columbia, Canada), January 06, 2013, 10:31 PM.
The more people attending the bhog or funeral is the measurement tool used to gauge how good he or she was. We live in ego, die in ego too. Very contradictory to true practice. Empty ritual.
5: Harminder Singh (Jalandhar, Punjab), January 21, 2013, 3:10 AM.
I agree with what Inder Kaur has said and in addition to this we pray to God that He may give shelter to the departed soul, and give strength and courage to the family members of the deceased to bear the loss. The collective prayer by sangat is more meaningful.
6: Ranjeet Singh (Modinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India), February 24, 2013, 10:49 AM.
It mostly has to do with the status of the deceased's family.