Death is an inevitable part of life that all individuals have to come to terms with at some point in time. Death is universal, and every culture has its unique way of handling and mourning their loved ones’ loss. Teaching students about death rituals in different cultures can help them understand the diversity and significance of death in various cultures and how they can sensitively approach such situations.
Teachers and parents need to educate children about the cultural differences they may face when experiencing death and mourning someone they know or someone in their community. Providing opportunities for children to learn about death and understand its cultural, social, and religious contexts can make death less intimidating and build their emotional resilience.
In some cultures, death is seen as a celebration of life. For instance, Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday, is a time for family and friends to honor those who have passed away. People make altars at home or in cemeteries adorned with colorful flowers, photographs, candles, and their loved ones’ favorite foods. At the center of the altar, a sugar skull, a traditional Mexican folk art item, honors the deceased individual. While many people might find this approach to death and mourning strange, exposed children to this kind of cultural celebration helps them appreciate the value placed on the life of the individual who has passed.
In Japan, a traditional Shinto funeral is usually simple, sober, and devoid of rituals. Shintoism believes that the soul of the deceased remains in the body for several days before departing. During this period, the family, relatives, and close friends visit the deceased to pay their respects and offer prayers. The family then cleans the body, which is placed in a casket, and mourners observe a moment of silence before leaving. By teaching students about these Japanese rituals, they can have a better understanding of their origins, beliefs, and cultural significance.
On the other hand, the Jewish funeral customs are traditionally based on the Halakha, the Jewish religious law. This includes washing the deceased’s body, wrapping it in a simple white burial shroud, reciting prayers, and burying them in a plain wooden box. At the funeral, mourners recite the Kaddish, a prayer for the deceased, and, in some cases, perform additional traditional Jewish mourning customs.
In conclusion, teaching students about death rituals in different cultures helps build their cultural competency, understanding, and compassion for others and create a more inclusive society. It is essential to encourage a healthy and respectful conversation with children to give them the tools and knowledge needed to communicate their condolences in a way that honors the individual and is culturally appropriate. Educating students on various death ritual practices can develop their empathy, understanding, and respect for diversity, regardless of their cultural background.
