by Reynold P. Macaranas

Filipino Funeral Superstitions Refuted

While religious rituals like mass offerings, novenas and other practices during the burial and internment proceedings of a departed loved one are acceptable and gratifying ceremonies, there are many superstitions that Filipinos continue to believe and practice despite of their apparent lack of basis. But as Nietzsche pointed out, “Convictions are more dangerous enemies of truth than lies.” Hereunder are some superstitions that Filipinos commonly hold that should be finally put to end once and for all.

Wearing Black or White

Colors had really nothing to do with human emotions or virtues.  The associations that people make with colors purely evolved out of social and artistic construction and motivation. A person can feel love, joy, hope, or sadness regardless of what color of clothing one wears.  What is more important is that people need to be in their proper attire while in funerals.   Apparently, you don’t wear bikinis as it causes distraction.

No Sweeping

Sweeping the floor of the departed’s house where the wake is traditionally held is a necessity for sanitary reasons, nothing more and nothing less. Besides, the “butong pakwan” and mani debris, the “sopas” and juice spills, candy wrappers and other dirt that stick on the floor can invite ants and insects that may crawl up the coffin as well as other germs that can cause sickness to everyone else.

No bathing or showering

First off, we believe that cleanliness is next to Godliness. Secondly, people should always maintain their personal hygiene for healthful reasons.  They should stay clean and presentable at all times. Mourning is no excuse for being dirty or smelly in as much as being clean and looking good meant no disrespect to the deceased.

Beliefs to prevent the death of another relative

There are more burial beliefs many Filipinos hold that especially relates to preventing a subsequent death of an immediate relative if not practiced.  Among them are: smashing of another glass when one had been accidentally broken; proscribing immediate family of the deceased to walk visitors out;  and lifting children over the casket before burying the dead, among others.  These beliefs are obviously unfounded and untrue.  First of, we know that death is very unpredictable even more than weather. And as Christians, we also believe that every thing including the occurrence of death ultimately depends on the will of God.

Most people argue that there is no harm in practicing these superstitions.  But the truth is conviction to these beliefs can post certain health risks and psychological trauma to some people. Some beliefs on the other hand are clearly inconsistent with our professed Christian faith.  Thus, they can be taken to mean or constitute a lack of trust in God.