In Chinese traditional culture, funeral etiquette has strict regulations, and there are also particularities in selecting the person who dresses the deceased in funeral clothes. So, who should dress the elderly in funeral clothes after their death? What are the particularities involved? This article will provide a detailed analysis for you.

I. Origin of Funeral Clothes

Funeral clothes, also known as "old clothes," are a special type of clothing prepared for the elderly in Chinese traditional culture. Legend has it that funeral clothes originated in the Zhou Dynasty. At that time, the king would prepare a set of special clothes for the elderly before their death to show respect and pray for a good destination in the next life. Later, this custom gradually spread to the folk and became a part of Chinese traditional funeral etiquette.

II. Particularities of Funeral Clothes

1. Colors of Funeral Clothes

In Chinese traditional culture, there are particularities in the colors of funeral clothes. Generally, the colors of funeral clothes are mainly white and black, symbolizing purity and solemnity respectively. Additionally, yellow and blue are also common colors for funeral clothes, representing dignity and auspiciousness.

2. Styles of Funeral Clothes

There are also certain particularities in the styles of funeral clothes. Generally, funeral clothes should be loose and comfortable, facilitating a good destination for the wearer in the next life. Additionally, the style of funeral clothes should be chosen according to the age, gender, and status of the deceased to show respect.

III. Who Dresses the Elderly in Funeral Clothes?

In traditional funeral etiquette, it is usually the younger generation of the family, such as children and grandchildren, who dress the elderly in funeral clothes. This is because in Chinese traditional culture, the younger generation has the responsibility and obligation to arrange the funeral for the elderly as a sign of filial piety. However, in some special circumstances, such as when the children are young or physically incapacitated, the task of dressing the deceased in funeral clothes may be performed by other relatives or professional funeral service personnel.

IV. Precautions

1. Timing of Dressing in Funeral Clothes

In traditional funeral etiquette, the timing of dressing the elderly in funeral clothes is usually the first time after their death. This is because it is believed that the soul of the deceased needs some time to adapt to its new identity and environment after leaving the body. Therefore, dressing the deceased in funeral clothes as soon as possible can help them smoothly transition to the next life.

2. Rituals of Dressing in Funeral Clothes

The process of dressing the elderly in funeral clothes is usually accompanied by certain rituals. First, the younger generation of the family needs to clean and groom the deceased as a sign of respect. Then, they will apply a special ointment to the deceased's body to prevent decay. Finally, they will dress the deceased in funeral clothes and place them in a coffin. During the entire process, family members and relatives will pray for the deceased, hoping for a good destination in the next life.

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