The color worn to funerals often depends on the religious beliefs and cultural traditions of the deceased and their family. Here are some common practices regarding funeral attire across different religions and cultures:
Christianity
In Christian traditions, particularly in Western cultures, black is the most common color worn to funerals. Wearing black is seen as a sign of mourning and respect for the deceased. This tradition dates back centuries in Europe and America.
Some specific guidelines on Christian funeral attire include:
- Men – Dark suit, often black, with a white shirt and muted tie.
- Women – Black dress, suit, or skirt/blouse. Black hat or headscarf was previously common.
- Family members often wear black armbands or pins as a sign of mourning.
Judaism
In Jewish traditions, funerals are often more focused on honoring the deceased than outward signs of grief. There are no absolute rules on colors, but some customary guidelines include:
- Close family members may wear black or dark colors as a sign of mourning during the initial mourning period.
- Jewish men often wear a black suit and yarmulke.
- Jewish women may wear modest black dresses or skirts/blouses. Head scarves were previously common.
- After the initial mourning period, flashy colors are avoided, but any modest, respectful clothing is acceptable.
Hinduism
Hindus often wear white clothing to funerals as a symbol of purity and mourning. Some guidelines include:
- Men wear a white dhoti or pants with a white shirt.
- Women wear a white sari or salwar kameez.
- Close family members may shave their heads as a sign of devotion and mourning.
- Widows wear white as a symbol of devotion to their deceased husband.
Buddhism
White is also the predominant Buddhist funeral color, with some regional variations:
- In Theravada Buddhism, white symbolizes mourning and is worn by monastics and laity.
- In Mahayana traditions like China, Korea, and Vietnam, black, white, or purple robes may be worn by monastics.
- Laity often wear subdued colors like gray, brown, or black.
Islam
Modest, conservative dress is customary at Muslim funerals:
- Men wear white thawb/dishdasha, head covering, and no perfume.
- Women wear black abaya and hijab with no perfume or jewelry.
- Close family members may additionally wear black head coverings.
African Traditions
The color red is prominent in many African cultures’ funeral rites as a symbol of life, blood, and celebration:
- Mourners may wear red, black, or a combination of colors.
- Kente cloth from Ghana and colorful shukas are commonly worn.
- Zulus wear grass rings and headbands while mourning.
- Maasai mourners avoid decorative beading and jewelry.
Conclusion
Funeral attire customs vary widely between cultures and faiths. But some common symbolic color meanings emerge:
- Black – Solemn mourning in Western cultures.
- White – Purity and mourning in Eastern religions.
- Red – Life and celebration in African traditions.
While customs dictate expectations, respect and solemnity are universal funeral values. Focusing on honoring the deceased takes priority over dress codes.