Posted by Bansi Pandit on November 14, 1997 at 20:36:19:
In Reply to: hindu cremation ceremony, Last Rites posted by Samir Patel on October 18, 1997 at 13:42:59:
: I'm currently taking a course in World's Religions, I was curious
: if any one can point me in the right direction for more information
: regarding Hindu cremation cermony, why and how is it performed. I
: know of the Panch Mhabhutt, but I was looking for little more of
: written explanation on these topics. I would really appreciate if
: any one can help me.
: Thank you
: Samir.
Response:
In Hinduism, the Panchmahabhuttas are the five great elements of antiquity (ingredients of the material component of the universe). They include Akash (ether), Vayu (air), Tejas (fire), Ap (water), and Prithivi (earth). Hindu cremation ceremony is intended to dissolve the material bond (attachment) between the Atman (soul) and the physical body so that the Atman can have a smooth transition to the astral world, upon the death of the physical body. The Atman develops attachment with the physical body during its life on earth and its transition to the astral world upon the death of the physical body becomes a painful affair. Through the power of the Vedic mantras, the cremation ceremony lessens the pain the Atman suffers when separated from the physical body. The cremation ceremony also provides psychological healing to the mourners of the departed soul. To know the technical details of how a cremation ceremony is performed, I suggest that you call the Vedic Priest at (630) 428-7777 or any other priest of a Hindu temple near you for details.
: