In a remarkable burst of online activity, a Thai man's query about an unusual funeral custom has ignited an extensive debate on social media. The man, posting anonymously on the Facebook page Knowledge Around, wondered about the significance of lighting cigarettes instead of incense sticks at funerals. The question posed on Monday, September 16, quickly went viral, attracting a surge of reactions from intrigued netizens.

 

Most responses pointed towards a traditional belief: lighting cigarettes at funerals is often reserved for deceased smokers as a mark of respect, symbolising a final gesture to accompany them to the afterlife. One commenter noted, "Thailand has a mixed culture. Lighting cigarettes at funerals where the deceased was a smoker is akin to pouring alcohol on graves in Japanese or Western traditions."

 

Another participant added, "It’s a way to honour the deceased in a manner that aligns with their personal beliefs. It’s fine as long as it doesn’t disturb others or violate social norms."

 

Offering an international perspective, one individual remarked, "In Vietnam, they light cigarettes as offerings at deity statues. Both incense and cigarettes were placed together."

 

 

 

 

While most discussions emphasised cultural significance, an intriguing comment suggested a futuristic angle: “Lighting cigarettes at funerals usually relates to specific cultural traditions, serving as a symbolic farewell tied to the deceased’s lifestyle."

 

Amidst this heated discussion, the page also delved into other intriguing topics. A deep dive into funeral expenses in northeastern Thailand revealed that costs could soar up to 300,000 baht, with significant sums allocated to monks and funeral workers. Additionally, a nurse's warning against bringing bells to hospitals, based on a harrowing experience, highlighted prevalent superstitious beliefs in medical settings.

 

These diverse discussions underscore Thailand's evolving cultural landscape, blending centuries-old traditions with contemporary influences. From unique funeral customs to superstitions in hospitals, these stories reflect the rich tapestry of Thai cultural expressions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the nation's complex societal norms.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-18

 

 

12 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

A deep dive into funeral expenses in northeastern Thailand revealed that costs could soar up to 300,000 baht, with significant sums allocated to monks and funeral workers.

That's a rip-off.

When my wife visits her late Father's resting place she always leaves a lit cigarette for him.

14 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

That's a rip-off.

Having first hand knowledge of this I can confirm that funerals can cost between 200,000 and 400,000 baht. This is mostly down to the 3 days of feeding the village that the deceased is from along with free alcohol. It is expected in Issan villages. I am glad my wife had the forethought to have had private insurance for her parents.

17 minutes ago, Daniel Cully said:

Like all villagers in isan could afford this.

I don't think all villagers can. All I know is the 3 days prior to the cremation the deceased family put on food and alcohol for  the rest of the village. I would think the cost is spread out with many family members. What is your experience of Isan funerals?

2 hours ago, Asquith Production said:

Having first hand knowledge of this I can confirm that funerals can cost between 200,000 and 400,000 baht. This is mostly down to the 3 days of feeding the village that the deceased is from along with free alcohol. It is expected in Issan villages. I am glad my wife had the forethought to have had private insurance for her parents.

Alcohol is not allowed in temple grounds, was this a home 'party' ?

We paid 1k per person for my mates cremation for the food no alcohol, and the 3 day ceremony.

20 people attended. Actual funeral was 5K included in that 20K. yes prices can vary but even 100k would be too much. Who paid ? was it you ?

15 minutes ago, brianthainess said:

Alcohol is not allowed in temple grounds, was this a home 'party' ?

We paid 1k per person for my mates cremation for the food no alcohol, and the 3 day ceremony.

20 people attended. Actual funeral was 5K included in that 20K. yes prices can vary but even 100k would be too much. Who paid ? was it you ?

 

We are talking for Thai people not farang and in an Isan village. The 3 days prior to the cremation the food and drink is consumed at the deceased house. If you read my first post you will see I did not pay anything. So if your intimating I was ripped off then your far off the mark.

4 hours ago, Asquith Production said:

I don't think all villagers can. All I know is the 3 days prior to the cremation the deceased family put on food and alcohol for  the rest of the village. I would think the cost is spread out with many family members. What is your experience of Isan funerals?

There is some offset. Principal attendees usually pass an envelope containing cash to the bereaved which, according to the deceased's status, can be substantial but seldom enough to cover the total cost. The downside is that if the bereaved, in the future, attend a funeral of a donor's deceased relative, there is an obligation to make a similar offering or suffer unspoken loss of face.

 

12 minutes ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

There is some offset. Principal attendees usually pass an envelope containing cash to the bereaved which, according to the deceased's status, can be substantial but seldom enough to cover the total cost. The downside is that if the bereaved, in the future, attend a funeral of a donor's deceased relative, there is an obligation to make a similar offering or suffer unspoken loss of face.

 

Similar to weddings... the cost of our Wedding (not insubstantial) was covered by the cost of the 'envelope monies' donated by the guests on arrival at the weddings.... 

 

I imagine and hope the same can be said of the In-Laws when they pass as their funerals could be fairly big affairs... So, offsetting any cost with donates is obviously be welcomed. 

 

24 minutes ago, PETERTHEEATER said:

There is some offset. Principal attendees usually pass an envelope containing cash to the bereaved which, according to the deceased's status, can be substantial but seldom enough to cover the total cost. The downside is that if the bereaved, in the future, attend a funeral of a donor's deceased relative, there is an obligation to make a similar offering or suffer unspoken loss of face.

 

Yes their is some offset but not substantial. Considering its an Isan village I think we got donations amounting to around 20 - 25%  of  the total outlay. 

Before the BBQ service starts, most people give an envelope to the family to help with

the costs. As I sit out here by Phimai, the wife is at a BBQ in Korat of a school friend who

died of "C". A few of the school friends saw in the hospital saw her last week, she couldn't

talk the wife said, but she cried when she saw her friends at her bedside.