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.
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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”

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-- A Guide to Baha'i Funeral and Burial Practices (Used by permission of the curator)