Religion and ritual

Abstract

Religion and ritual have featured in human society for many thousands of years. The complexity of the rituals of different religions and their diversity can seem overwhelming at times, but interestingly all religions appear to follow many similar themes. Even though each culture has its own approach to death, in almost all faiths, death is seen as a time of transition. This chapter covers approaches to death found in the major UK religions and cultures. Examining the main features of Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism, Buddhism, and traditional African cultures, this chapter covers both the general aspects of these faiths and cultures, and the main beliefs and practicalities that these groups associate with the death of a child. As well as providing information on specific issues, this chapter covers usual procedures before and after death, funeral rituals, and typical rituals on the anniversary of death.