What is the Lao tradition when someone dies?

A Laotian funeral service is typically led by Buddhist monks. The monks, family, and other mourners offer candles and flowers to the deceased. After the monks lead the prayers, the female family members light the pyre. Afterward, they gather the ashes and bones to put in a small stupa.

How long do Hmong funerals last?

Traditionally in Hmong culture funerals last for 3 days for children (Saturday start) and 4 days for adults (Friday start). These days are to help the deceased safely cross over into the spirit world.

How do Hmong funerals work?

A Hmong funeral lasts from three to 12 days depending on several factors, such as finding a suitable burial day. During the funeral ceremony, an immediate family member guards the deceased’s casket from harm, such as evil spirits. It’s also taboo for mourners to show any distress during the funeral ceremony.

What is a Hmong funeral service?

The funeral is the most elaborate of all Hmong rituals. The overall goal of the performed rituals is to guide the soul back to the placental jacket, or motherland, then to Heaven to ask for reincarnation.

What do I need for a Laos funeral?

Offering condolences or gifts In Laos, people usually bring money, flowers, and food to the funeral as a way to show respect. These are kept by the family after the service.

What is a traditional funeral?

“Traditional” Full-service Funeral This type of funeral, often referred to by funeral providers as a “traditional” funeral, usually includes a viewing or visitation and formal funeral service, use of a hearse to transport the body to the funeral site and cemetery, and burial, entombment, or cremation of the remains.

How much does a Hmong funeral cost?

Traditional Hmong funerals can cost as much as $15,000 or $20,000—and even tens of thousands more, depending on how lavish a ceremony the family wants.

Who walks in first at a funeral?

The processional is led by the officiant and is followed by the pallbearers who carry the casket. Next, the family and kin to the deceased walk down the aisle, followed by close friends as they take their seats in the first few rows. A funeral recessional marks the end of the funeral service.