Illuminating the Soul's Journey Home: Traditions and Comfort of Keeping Lights On During Funerals

In traditional Taiwanese funeral customs, the core reason for keeping the house brightly lit during a funeral is to 'guide the deceased home' and symbolize their 'unending incense trail' of companionship. This practice typically begins when a relative passes away and an altar is set up, continuing until the end of the memorial service (funeral procession). 🏮 1. Folk Belief: Lighting the Way Home Folk beliefs hold that upon death, the soul enters a state of confusion. Particularly on the 'seventh day' (頭七, tou qi), the deceased's spirit is believed to be guided home by the Earth God. Keeping the house and its surroundings illuminated is meant to help the departed clearly recognize their home and find their way back on the long, dark path of the underworld. Furthermore, the constant burning of incense, candles (everlasting lamps) before the altar, and the main house lights 24/7 symbolizes companionship for the deceased and the continuation of the family line. 🛡️ 2. Practical Function: Pest Control and Funeral Management During the mourning period, family members frequently receive condolences from relatives and friends and must handle various funeral arrangements. Maintaining bright lights ensures that family members do not fall or injure themselves due to poor visibility when staying up all night or being busy. Simultaneously, a continuous light source can deter insects, mosquitoes, and small animals like cats and dogs from approaching or disturbing the altar. 🕯️ 3. Psychological Perspective: Providing Courage and Solace to the Living Facing the loss of a loved one, family members can easily feel fear and grief in a dark environment. Bright, warm lighting can provide a sense of security and courage, conveying a warm feeling of 'we are still with you,' offering emotional support to the bereaved.