"Even the gorgeous royal chariots wear out; and indeed this body too wears out. But the teaching of goodness does not age; and so Goodness makes that known to the good ones."
~Buddhist Funeral Chant
Large numbers of family members and friends follow the funeral cart along a Siem Reap to a local Pagoda for the cremation of a loved one. Taking part in the procession is seen as performing a final act of service for the deceased and is considered a meritorious act.
After death family members take part in a bathing ceremony; one hand is washed with water before the body is placed in the coffin. Wreaths, flowers and incense are placed around the coffin and a photo of the deceased and coloured lights are sat above. The photo follows the funeral cart during the procession.
White is the traditional colour of mourning for Cambodians.
A shave head can also signify mourning.
During the funeral service, monks, (not seen here) face the coffin. Later the coffin is placed on a pyre of bricks. Mourners then place lit candles and incense under the coffin and the cremation begins.
"Just as the pouring down of a mighty rain, the bubbles on the water very soon vanish and do not remain for long; just so is the bubble-like life of men very short and fleeting."
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