Comparative Analysis of Death Rituals
Grief and Loss
July 19, 2004
Comparative Analysis of Death Rituals All prominent cultures and religions in the world devote specific rites and rituals to their respective societies and faiths. Rites are acts of social, spiritual and religious origins and apply not only to ceremonies for the living, but to ceremonies for the dead as well. This paper will compare and contrast the rituals practiced by my Italian-American family with the rituals practiced by those of Muslim beliefs. My family identifies strongly with its Italian roots and actively participates in the Roman-Catholic faith. I have a large extended family, which generally is involved in most family functions. This holds true when dealing with deaths in the family as well. It has been my experience thus far that deaths in my family have been anticipated, due to cancer or other long illness. This generally sets the stage for the extended family to band together and offer support in a multitude of ways. There is always someone to run errands, do chores around the house, make meals for the family, and to just visit and offer emotional support. The home is visited by the family 's priest, who prays, gives communion, and administers the Anointing of the Sick, a Catholic Sacrament that prepares a person 's soul for death through forgiveness of sin and affirmation of faith. This also allows time for the family to plan ahead for the funeral Mass, and the readings and music it will include. The support of extended family and clergy members allows for death to occur in the home, in comfortable surroundings and with loved ones.
Following the death, the immediate family is generally inundated with offers of condolence and food galore. A contingent of people generally shows up to accept offerings and keep things clean and running smoothly. They handle phone calls, record visitors and the offerings of food they have brought, and keep the house organized. Italian families traditionally have taken
July 19, 2004
Comparative Analysis of Death Rituals All prominent cultures and religions in the world devote specific rites and rituals to their respective societies and faiths. Rites are acts of social, spiritual and religious origins and apply not only to ceremonies for the living, but to ceremonies for the dead as well. This paper will compare and contrast the rituals practiced by my Italian-American family with the rituals practiced by those of Muslim beliefs. My family identifies strongly with its Italian roots and actively participates in the Roman-Catholic faith. I have a large extended family, which generally is involved in most family functions. This holds true when dealing with deaths in the family as well. It has been my experience thus far that deaths in my family have been anticipated, due to cancer or other long illness. This generally sets the stage for the extended family to band together and offer support in a multitude of ways. There is always someone to run errands, do chores around the house, make meals for the family, and to just visit and offer emotional support. The home is visited by the family 's priest, who prays, gives communion, and administers the Anointing of the Sick, a Catholic Sacrament that prepares a person 's soul for death through forgiveness of sin and affirmation of faith. This also allows time for the family to plan ahead for the funeral Mass, and the readings and music it will include. The support of extended family and clergy members allows for death to occur in the home, in comfortable surroundings and with loved ones.
Following the death, the immediate family is generally inundated with offers of condolence and food galore. A contingent of people generally shows up to accept offerings and keep things clean and running smoothly. They handle phone calls, record visitors and the offerings of food they have brought, and keep the house organized. Italian families traditionally have taken
Cited: Worden, J. William. (2002). Grief Counseling and Grief Therapy. New York: Springer Publishing Company.