In Hinduism, several rituals are observed after a person's death for the peace of the departed soul, the well-being of the living family members, and in accordance with the rules of the Garuda Purana. One such tradition is that the hearth in the house remains unlit after the death of a family member. This practice, as per the Garuda Purana, holds significant importance. But why is this done? Let's explore...
Among the 16 sanskaras (sacraments) in Hinduism, the funeral rites form the final one. This is the last rite of a human's life, encompassing various customs related to their death. Every custom has a profound and logical reason behind it, which is essential to understand so that we can perform the rituals with full understanding and sincerity. One such custom dictates that when someone in the house dies, the hearth in the house remains unlit on that day. But do you know why this tradition is followed? Let's understand...
In Hinduism, this tradition is considered highly significant. The death of a family member not only causes grief to the relatives but also involves ensuring that the departed soul does not suffer. According to the Garuda Purana, the soul remains around its family for 13 days after death. When someone dies, their mortal body begins to decay, and certain rules are established concerning this body to prevent any harm to the household members. As for not cooking food after a death, the Garuda Purana states that lighting the hearth and cooking food causes distress to the departed soul. During the mourning period, both the family and the soul grieve the separation, and eating food in such an atmosphere is considered inappropriate. If someone in the house eats, it causes distress to the departed soul. Hence, the Garuda Purana prohibits cooking food in the house after a death.
The Garuda Purana also mentions that until the funeral rites are completed, the hearth should not be lit because the deceased is considered akin to a deity and should be accorded the same respect. Only after completing all the rituals associated with the funeral should food be prepared and consumed.
From a scientific perspective, after a death, the elements around the body interact and create bacteria, which spread invisibly throughout the house. As a result, everything in the house is considered impure and dirty. After the body is taken away, all the clothes and other items in the house are thoroughly cleaned. In such a situation, the cooked food is also at risk of contamination. Hence, to prevent consumption of impure and contaminated food, there is a rule against cooking in the house after a death.
Understanding and respecting these traditions allows us to honor both the departed and the living, maintaining a balance of reverence and hygiene. The practice of keeping the hearth unlit is a profound symbol of respect and a measure of care for the well-being of all involved.
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