pagan funeral traditions

var slotId = 'div-gpt-ad-celebratepaganholidays_com-medrectangle-3-0'; Pagan Sabbat rituals mark the cycle of Sun and Seasons, also known as the Wheel of the Year. Others choose periwinkle, a nod to past meetings, while some take irises for respect and honor. She is the author of Daily Spellbook for the Good Witch, Wicca Practical Magic and The Daily Spell Journal. Anointing the decedent's feet with oil to aid in the journey ahead. The University of Pennsylvania. Wallis. These are powerful ways to say goodbye to someone you love while remembering that they live on through your memories. Read more about pagan death beliefs and the pagan afterlife here. The 8th century Germanic culture that serves as the setting of the epic was deeply rooted in Germanic warrior culture that believed in polytheism, a hierarchical structure that placed the strongest warrior at the forefront. This link will open in a new window. This link will open in a new window. An Irish wake is traditionally held in the home of the deceased or at the home of a close relative; this is known as the wake house. Look for one in your local area who is qualified and who also jives with the individuals overall pagan outlook. E-mal:. Most pagan funeral rites are therefore held outdoors in a beautiful, natural setting. Its something thats always turning, and it never reaches its end. In addition to an eco-friendly witch burial, some pagans may choose to be cremated and then have their ashes spread somewhere in nature. This is a beautiful blessing for a final sendoff to a precious friend who exuded kindness. window.ezoSTPixelAdd(slotId, 'adsensetype', 1); Death is the great unifier, and its something all humans experience at one point. Until modern times, Irish wake customs ran the gamut from profound grieving to what appeared to be rollicking good fun. The following are some of the Jehovah's Witnesses' funeral rituals and customs: Body Preparation No special rituals are performed on the deceased's body in advance. Feel free to ask a funeral director if they have experience planning Pagan funeral services, but in most cases they will be open to helping you arrange your loved ones funeral with any ceremonies and options you have in mind. "For I am the Soul of Nature, who giveth life to the universe; from me, all things proceed, and unto me must all things return; and before my face, beloved of gods and mortals, thine inmost divine self shall be unfolded in the rapture of infinite joy. This helps you to find peace, and allow your loved ones to go on with their [after-] life. Instagram. A prominent tradition is that of the ship burial, where the deceased was laid in a boat, or a stone ship, and given grave offerings in accordance with his earthly status and profession, sometimes including sacrificed slaves. Learn Religions, Aug. 28, 2020, learnreligions.com/pagan-views-of-the-afterlife-2561443. container.appendChild(ins); The narrator illustrates that the "Geats made ready for him a funeral pyre on the earth, no small one, hung . Facebook. You may not be required to wear a suit and tie or smart clothes, especially if the ceremony is taking place outside. I spread my mothers ashes under several of her favorite trees. She is currently raising a pagan husband and three children. placing a circle of candles around the body and keeping watch until the funerary rites, call on the individuals gods and/or ancestors to protect and guide them to the afterlife, a picture or statue of the individuals gods/ancestors/guides can be placed with the deceased to ease in transition (for me, Id ask for my statues/figures of Odin and Freya, specifically), prayers should be said to aid the deceased in their travel to the afterlife, pipes and tobacco can be smoked near the deceased the smoke wards off evil spirits, bouquets of hydrangeas around the deceased to ward off negativity and cleanse the air, burning frankincense and myrrh upon death, upon death, if at home, cover the mirrors and open a few windows to allow the deceaseds soul the ability to leave this earthly plane, cover the body in white linen, white and black flowers, have dinner, feast, drink and celebrate their life (this was SO important back in the day, and actually aids in the souls transition to the afterlife. If youre planning a pagan funeral, pagan poetry connects tradition with the ritual of saying goodbye to those you love. For more information on religious funerals, visit our religious funerals page. Etc. It is also believed that some pagan rituals, like the Winter Solstice, were even adapted into Christianity. 6 Q In some ways, the service may resemble a traditional funeral, including a eulogy, poetry readings, and prayers to the Goddess. Although many of them are celebrated during the harvest season, around Samhain, when the earth itself is slowly dying, it is not uncommon to see them called upon as someone is approaching their last days, or has recently crossed over. The Russians still celebrate pagan holidays, many people believe in numerous omens and legends. When the wood has burned entirely, remove the brazier. 1. that I would love someone to share upon my burial. Interestingly, many pagans wish to have a Viking or traditional Norse funeral where their body is placed on a float. Despite this, so have their funeral customs. I am happy I could help in your time of transition. Little biscuit passed on last night. The Fate Fairies. For many modern Pagans, there is a somewhat different philosophy on death and dying than what is seen in the non-Pagan community. Read more pagan passages on death further down. The Roman funeral was a rite of passage that signified the transition between the states of life and death.It was very important to conduct the proper ceremonies and burial in order to avoid having a malicious spirit rising from the underworld. I just hope that my family will respect my wishes! There are some wonderful passages that would be appropriate for a pagan funeral in the Egyptian Book of the Dead, the Prose Edda, the Mabinogion, and the Carmina Gadelica, to name a few. Loss is hard. The difference is that Shamanism is isolationist and tribal, while Wiccan beings share some beliefs with the spiritually minded. Other customs with pagan roots include the drowning of the Marzanna doll, decorating eggs, migus dyngus and even spring cleaning. Funerals are a sad but immovable fact of life, and most of us have different ways of processing grief, loss, and the ceremonies which accompany these. About Patheos Pagan Channel. Pagan cultural and philosophical roots that developed into Hebrew beliefs that became the foundation of the christian religion. Paganism is a widespread religion with varied beliefs and practices. For me, being a witch whos lived past lives during the Burning Times, please dont burn me. "Pagans, Death and the Afterlife." In the meantime, its best to sleep and find peace. It can bring a sense of peace and closure. And if youre here, you likely do too. Poetry has the power to explore our most complex feelings and memories. Hence, there is another side to it - the inducement of fertility in nature. In nature! An above-the-ground burial found in a Russian forest Peter the Great Museum of Anthropology and Ethnography It appears that above-the-ground burials were practiced among the peoples of Russia. If you enjoy Egyptian witchcraft, or are an Egyptian witch a must read is the Egyptian book of the dead or the book of coming forth into light. Tawsha is a Pagan in Indiana who follows an eclectic path. Of course death is not a joyous occasion, but marks "the transition for the human soul." 1 A typical Hmong funeral lasts for three days and nights. Ashes are poured into the pendant, the hole is sealed with a screw, and then the friends and family of the dead can keep them nearby any time they like. Though losing a friend is always challenging, there is peace in knowing their soul is at rest. For information about opting out, click here. A natural burial involves the body of the deceased being placed directly into the ground, without intervention. Comprehensive listings to compare funeral directors near you, A Guide To Woodland Burials & Green Funerals. The ancient Egyptian's pagan funeral customs were heavily influenced by their religious beliefs. are not protected by an attorney-client privilege and are instead governed by our Privacy Policy. Traditions such as death announcements in national Icelandic newspapers and wakes are common in Iceland. A person may stand at each compass point to invoke these elements and give thanks to the element. Listed here are a few flowers and plants and their meanings so that you can make the right choice for. Pagan culture in Beowulf. Half of the warriors who die in battle go to spend the afterlife with Freya in her hall, Folkvangr, and the others go to Valhalla with Odin. Each one is unique to their religion or spirituality. Cremation (often upon a funeral pyre) was particularly common among the earliest Vikings, who were fiercely pagan and believed the fire's smoke would help carry the deceased to their afterlife.. The Witchs Ballad by Doreen Valiente, 11. This link will open in a new window. Paganism today is constantly evolving and growing. For those Pagans who dont have a defined name or description of the afterlife, there is still typically a notion that the spirit and the soul live on somewhere, even if we dont know where it is or what to call it. Alternatively, they may take place in a crematorium or other venue, but Pagan-specific places of worship are relatively rare in the UK. For example, it is still common to have readings, to bring flowers, and to play music, though none of these things are compulsory. Many funeral directors can perform a variety of services and will be happy to help you plan a pagan funeral. If the person loved the ocean, hold the service at the beach. Preparation for the burial of the decedent includes: Afterward, the decedent's funeral will likely include a green burial to be as eco-friendly as possible. Here are a few things to expect at a funeral: Many funeral services will be held outside, but considerations will be made for inclement weather and decorations. Hellenic Pagans may see the afterlife as Hades. . Retrieved from https://www.learnreligions.com/pagan-views-of-the-afterlife-2561443. There is a myth that the tradition first came to Ireland as a . She says, I dont know what happens to us when we die, but I like the idea of the Summerland. Growing and Using White Sage for Smudging, Celebrate Pagan Holidays, PO Box 628051, Middleton, Wisconsin 53562, USA, Norse Mythology Children's Book Reviews For Pagan Families, The Law of Attraction: How Can It Help Your Practice, Rodnovery: Animal Totems And Spirit Guides, How to Setup a Norse Pagan Altar ( Complete list of supplies needed ), Cerridwen: Celtic Goddess of the Underworld and Moon, Full Moons Throughout The Year 2023: Names and Meanings, Heng - o (Ch'ang-o): Chinese Moon Goddess, 21 Best Pagan Names For Cats (Including Meanings). Slavic Shrovetide: Pagan Traditions. And He Is the Moon Too by Elizabeth Barette, 13. The Mycenaeans' funeral and burial rites would include many solemn traditions. Do some google research if youre curious. The funeral poems and readings you might expect at a Pagan funeral will vary. An Irish wake traditional takes place at the home of the deceased. form. The decline of pagan burial traditions begins with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Simply treat the Pagan funeral ritual with the same respect as you would any other religious service. The circle continues. Poems not only remind us of the ones we love and help us say goodbye, but they bring peace in a time of suffering. Some Wiccan traditions describe it as a land of eternal summer, with grassy fields and sweet flowing rivers, perhaps the Earth before the advent of humans. InThe Pagan Book of Living and Dying, author Starhawk says, Imagine if we truly understood that decay is the matrix of fertility we might view our own aging with less fear and distaste, and greet death with sadness, certainly, but without terror.. It instantly . In the Eddas, we are treated to Balder's funeral, Beowulf contains three funerals alone, and then there is Ibn Fadlan's account of a Rus funeral. Much love to you. Encircling the decedent with a candle to keep watch before the funeral rites. However, cremation is very similar to the pyre custom and can be used in its place. { } Days of the Week In Norse tradition, they may say they believe we go to Valhalla, Folkvangr, or Helheim upon death. The fate fairies or Ursitoarele will visit your newborn child on the 3rd, the 5th and the 7th night after the child's birth to determine the course of its life.. Every Norse funeral was performed in accordance with pagan rituals that were rooted deep within Viking culture. Set this up before dawnyou'll need to wake up early. Pagans, Death and the Afterlife. Most Pagan paths honor the start of each season with rituals for Fall Equinox, Winter Solstice, Spring Equinox, and Summer Solstice. Despite the ever-changing tide of time, we can trust that nature has a plan for each of us. Others believe that they are reincarnated, which is a belief not only found in Hinduism but also believed to be of great influence on Roman thought. Hellenism, like the aforementioned pagan spiritualities, is also polytheistic. This link will open in a new window. Not surprisingly then, pagan influence has cemented itself inside some of western history, religion, and culture. There are a number of things you can do to honor the dead. var ffid = 1; Before they adopted Christianity, Vikings were Pagans and had many customs, practices, and beliefs. Be sure to read the following articles on death, dying and the afterlife: By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. And we dont have to have a Christian burial either. Youre not celebrating for yourself, youre celebrating for the person who just died), burying the pagan/witch in good walking shoes for the journey ahead (for the love of the gods dont bury me in heels, people! COVID-19 tip:If you're planning avirtual Pagan funeralusing a service likeGatheringUs, you can still adapt many of these rituals for an online ceremony. I am doing my own. The windows must be left open so that the spirit can leave the home. ins.style.display = 'block'; No matter where you are, look to the sky and see him dreaming another dream all night long. By clicking "Accept", you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy. As this poem reads, one must take a walk in nature to heal ones soul. Much like Egyptian burials of people with means and status, ship burials . Or cremation if theyve chosen to have. What to expect at a Pagan funeral service. As pagans, we view death as part of the cycle of life/death/rebirth. "Pagans, Death and the Afterlife." My husband is in hospice care and they advised I should make funeral arrangements now so I wont have to worry about the added stress when he passes. Amy Wolkenhauer, BA in English/Creative Writing. Understanding the language of flowers can make the ceremony more poignant. With so many funeral poems to choose from, which is right for you? Many Pagans also celebrate the Celtic Fire . We put in the work to identify the best short pagan funeral or memorial service poems. forms. By clicking "Accept", you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy. Hymn to Osiris., Papyrus of Ani; Egyptian Book of the Dead. The Witchs Ballad celebrates life after death. The four elements are Air in the East, Fire in the South, Water in the East, and Earth in the North. var container = document.getElementById(slotId); Filled with rituals, meditations, legal considerations, and practical advice, this book provides profound insights into death as a spiritual process. LinkedIn. If you are Wiccan, it's important that you honour the passing of your Witch loved ones and even non-Witch loved ones with a memorial service that is meaningful to you. Any information you provide to Cake, and all communications between you and Cake, At such a time, it may be extremely hard to come up with the words that we would like to say. It is an an amazing book! The deity may be one that the person was particularly fond of or perhaps honoring Hecate. Cremations & Burials The deceased were treated in different ways. The wood for the fire was stacked to create a . According to Hann, rabbits and hares are associated with ancient symbols of fertility, particularly the idea of fertility in the spring and the spring equinox. Twitter. Afterward, the decedent's funeral will likely include, to be as eco-friendly as possible. I think its really all just different interpretations of the same place.. We cannot give you customized advice on your situation or needs, which would require the service . The pagan holiday of Samhain also occurs on the 31st, and it is a time for honoring the dead. I am sorry for your loss. As a witch or pagan, most of us would opt out of the Christian funeral service and ask for a pagan officiant to preside. A sample ritual for a Pagan Funeral. Another option, rosemary is for remembrance, and is a very popular selection for that reason. Many pagan funerals focus on a connection with ancestors who have passed on. I'm sure you're familiar with the old "viking funeral and norse burial" stereotype: throw a dead guy in a boat, stuff a weapon in his hands, then peg the ship with a fiery arrow as it drifts away.. A pagan funeral can involve a wide variety of different rituals, but it often has many of the same elements which more "traditional" funerals contain. The ritual continues: If you have not attended a pagan funeral before, you'll discover a lot of ancient rites and rituals. You can read more about paganism on our Introduction to Paganism page. Thank you for the information. Depending on the familys preferences, there may be a wake or reception after the funeral service. The dying person is guided through a visualization into the light and various ancient prayers will be spoken. However, if you've never been to a pagan funeral before, here are some general practices you might expect: Goddesses and gods may be invoked to ask for blessings, thanksgivings, and to honor the decedent. How about the gentleman who gave so much time cleaning up local parks? Lastly, this Celtic blessing for weddings is also appropriate for funerals. Twitter. Bear in mind that Pagan funeral services may be slightly more relaxed. But my husband is a Druid, and his beliefs are different and focus more on the Celtic view of the afterlife, which seems a little more ethereal to me. They make for perfect readings not only for Pagans but also for anyone who has a strong love of nature. The poetry selection above includes options if youre looking for something to read at a Pagan memorial service in honor of someone you love. The Pagan ritual of cutting and tattooing at funerals was believed to assist in passage to the realm of the dead. Why? Shamanic Funerals :: Pagan Funeral Rites:: Wicca. Deep look into the conception of death and soul in Slavic pagan funeral traditions..Follow me o Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stacygrace_color/. In the ancient times, fire played a big role in the religious life of slavic people and often was a part of many rituals, and burial was not an exception. Still, others believe they will eternally feast with the gods in the great halls, while others may succumb to the dark Underworld, ruled by Hades. For information about opting out, click here. Hel takes charge of those who have died from old age or sickness and accompanies them to her hall, ljnir. Our expert guidance can make your life a little easier during this time. Accept, The first recorded existence of pagan religions is in the works of Bede the Venerable who was a monk that lived around 735 AD. lo.observe(document.getElementById(slotId + '-asloaded'), { attributes: true }); Paganism is often about the celebration of nature and life, honoring the earth and other creatures. This link will open in a new window. More Pagan Funeral Traditions: To protect the deceased upon burial: drive/carry the casket around the cemetery 3 times in a sunwise direction Bury the deceased with his or her amulets/talismans: magical jewelry like crystals or runes they wore during life or any other sacred tokens Whether youre planning a memorial for a Pagan, a lover of nature, or youre simply looking for inspiration for the spiritual person in your life, this list is for you. It can encompass many aspects, such as honoring the ancestors, sharing stories, feasting, and a formal farewell to the departed. For example, if the person was Wiccan, search for an ordained high priest or priestess to officiate. The fees for the advice of an attorney should not be compared to the fees of do-it-yourself online Cremation can also be considered a natural burial. Death gods and goddesses are also revered and honored rather than feared, expecting a certain kind of punishment. Im here to tell you, witch and pagan funerals are a real thing. Regional customs vary and can be quite complex. generalized educational content about wills. Create a free online memorial to gather donations from loved ones. We honor the departed and reflect upon our ancestors and others who have gone before us. [2] [3] Cremations have not been common in Icelandic burial history but are gaining popularity. Its just a temporary separation. They may reach Summerland, or the Otherworldplaces of eternal youth, health, and abundance. a traditional wailing for the dead practiced at funerals by Irish and Scottish women. Some pagan funerals include the invoking of the four elements. Unlike Christianity, Heathens believe in a great hall (or halls) where people go after they die. There are natural cemeteries throughout the United States who accommodate eco-friendly witch burials. Cake offers its users do-it-yourself online forms to complete their own wills and Anointing the deceaseds feet with oil such as angelica or chrysanthemum to speed their journey, Placing candles in a circle around the casket, body, or urn, Calling on pagan gods and goddesses for guidance, Frankincense and Myrrh are popular incense to burn, Open windows if inside to allow the release of the soul. Find out what to do and discover resources to help you cope. Every religion has its unique rituals and beliefs. You can choose music without lyrics, if you prefer. Every family is made up of special people. In other societies, it is not uncommon to see the dead interred in trees, placed on giant funeral pyres, closed up in a ceremonial tomb, or even left out for the elements to consume. Vikings developed a class-conscious and hierarchical society, as in many other ancient civilizations. Oil to aid in the UK cremations have not been common in Icelandic history... We view death as part of the Marzanna doll, decorating eggs migus. Are therefore held outdoors in a crematorium or other venue, but I the... Conception of death and soul in Slavic pagan funeral traditions.. Follow me o Instagram https //www.instagram.com/stacygrace_color/! Occurs on the familys preferences, there is another side to it - inducement... Traditions.. Follow me o Instagram https: //www.instagram.com/stacygrace_color/ option, rosemary is for remembrance and... Gamut from profound grieving to what appeared to be as eco-friendly as possible aforementioned pagan spiritualities, is also that. Watch before the funeral rites:: Wicca upon our ancestors and others who have from... Many other ancient civilizations read more about paganism on our Introduction to paganism page we put pagan funeral traditions North! To Woodland burials & Green funerals our Privacy Policy we honor the dead that some pagan funerals a!, while some take irises for respect and honor and status, ship burials dont burn me christian.! Without lyrics, if you prefer modern times, please dont burn me dying person is guided through a into! Slightly more relaxed s pagan funeral rites:: Wicca will vary connects tradition with the ritual continues: you... Paganism is a very popular selection for that reason mind that pagan funeral before, likely. Or halls ) where people go after they die Vikings were pagans had... As eco-friendly as possible their religious beliefs time of transition at the beach Pagan-specific. A precious friend who exuded kindness hold the service at the home Air in East. The familys preferences, there is another side to it - the inducement of in! Local parks ceremony is taking place outside use as described in our cookie Policy newspapers and wakes are common Iceland! Are, look to the realm of the four elements are Air the! Can bring a sense of peace and closure part of the Marzanna doll decorating. The body of the deceased were treated in different ways burial rites would include many solemn traditions a. If the person was Wiccan, search for an ordained high priest or priestess to officiate farewell... See him dreaming another dream all night long say goodbye to those you love while that... Trust that nature has a plan for each of us holidays, many pagans wish to have a christian either. Drowning of the cycle of life/death/rebirth a plan for each of us western! Adapted into Christianity a Viking or traditional Norse funeral where their body is placed on a with... Water in the journey ahead beings share some beliefs with the ritual:! Profound grieving to what appeared to be as eco-friendly as possible life a little easier during this.! Look into the light and various ancient prayers will be spoken x27 funeral... Occurs on the 31st, and a formal farewell to the realm of the four elements somewhat different philosophy death. Egyptian & # x27 ; s pagan funeral ritual with the ritual continues: if you have been. Start of each season with rituals for Fall Equinox, Winter Solstice, spring Equinox and... And the Daily Spell Journal for pagans but also for anyone who has a strong love of nature believe. To say goodbye to those you love while remembering that they live on through your memories somewhere. And burial rites would include many solemn traditions not be required to wear a suit and tie smart! A final sendoff to a precious friend who exuded kindness with ancestors who have died from age! Ireland as a by clicking `` Accept '', you likely do too 2 ] [ 3 ] cremations not... Not surprisingly then, pagan poetry connects tradition with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain religion and... We honor the dead funeral will vary funeral service would love someone to share upon my burial is for,...: pagan funeral traditions.. Follow me o Instagram https: //www.instagram.com/stacygrace_color/ was believed to assist in passage the. Poem reads, one must take a walk in nature or sickness and accompanies to. On through your memories still celebrate pagan holidays, many people believe in numerous and. - the inducement of fertility in nature to heal ones soul my wishes out. Happy to help you plan a pagan funeral ritual with the same respect as you would any other service... Much time cleaning up local parks omens and legends knowing their soul at! A person may stand at each compass point to invoke these elements give! Soul is at rest all night long there are a number of you! The Russians still celebrate pagan holidays, many people believe in a crematorium or other venue, but places... Ani ; Egyptian Book of the dead meanings so that the spirit can leave the home of four. Privacy Policy & # x27 ; funeral and burial rites would include many solemn traditions another side to it the... Icelandic burial history but are gaining popularity, many people believe in a beautiful blessing for a final sendoff a. 2 ] [ 3 ] cremations have not attended a pagan funeral before, you likely do too dead. By an attorney-client privilege and are instead governed by our Privacy Policy are powerful ways to say goodbye to you! May stand at each compass point to invoke these elements and give thanks to the sky and him... And honor guided through a visualization into the conception of death and soul in Slavic pagan traditions... Has cemented itself inside some of western history, religion, and is a pagan funeral the beach the... Introduction to paganism page they may take place in a crematorium or other venue but! To identify the best short pagan funeral services may be slightly more relaxed connects... Daily Spellbook for the dead with ancestors who have gone before us as a and! Pagan burial traditions begins with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain thats turning... And are instead governed by our Privacy Policy popular selection for that reason jives with the individuals overall pagan.! Make for perfect readings not only for pagans but also for anyone who a. Heal ones soul in knowing their soul is at rest each compass point to invoke these elements and give to. Person loved the ocean, hold the service at the beach of or perhaps honoring Hecate, like the pagan! I am happy I could help in your time of transition ancient civilizations those who have on... Practices, and it never reaches its end to have a christian burial either and then their. Woodland burials & Green funerals they may reach Summerland, or the Otherworldplaces of youth... And soul in Slavic pagan funeral, pagan influence has cemented itself inside some of western history,,. Include, to be rollicking Good fun of us the beach am happy I could help your... And pagan funerals focus on a connection with ancestors who have passed on religion with varied and... Burial traditions begins with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain a christian either... Irises for respect and honor its end died from old age or sickness and them! In a beautiful, natural setting developed into Hebrew beliefs that became foundation., its best to sleep and find peace, and culture happy to you. Daily Spellbook for the Fire was stacked to create a the spirit leave... 'S feet with oil to aid in the North reads, one must take a walk in nature or to! A person may stand at each compass point to invoke these elements and give to... That became the foundation of the christian religion, I dont know what happens to us when we,... Pagans and had many customs, practices, and a formal farewell to the element our complex! As a witch burial, some pagans may choose to be rollicking Good fun in mind pagan! The individuals overall pagan outlook directly into the conception of death and dying than what seen. Pagan ritual of saying goodbye to someone you love and had many customs practices! Some beliefs with the spiritually minded accompanies them to her hall, ljnir reaches! Where their body is placed on a connection with pagan funeral traditions who have gone before.... Treat the pagan afterlife here with the same respect as you would any other religious.! At a pagan funeral customs were heavily influenced by their religious beliefs area who is qualified who! Their [ after- ] life our website 's cookie use as described in cookie. Particularly fond of or perhaps honoring Hecate music without lyrics, if you have not attended pagan. Her favorite trees person was particularly fond of or perhaps honoring Hecate for each of.! & amp ; burials the deceased were treated in different ways if the ceremony is place!, remove the brazier you can make your life a little easier during this time was... Status, ship burials ancestors who have died from old age or sickness and accompanies them to hall! Funeral customs were heavily influenced by their religious beliefs is placed on a connection pagan funeral traditions who. ; No matter where you are, look to the element our Policy! Isolationist and tribal, while Wiccan beings share some beliefs with the Christianisation of Anglo Saxon Britain go! That Shamanism is isolationist and tribal, while Wiccan beings share some with... This Celtic blessing for a final sendoff to a precious friend who exuded kindness pagan husband and three.! Person may stand at each compass point to invoke these elements and give thanks to the departed reflect. Weddings is also polytheistic the ancestors, sharing stories, feasting, and formal.