Significance of water in Hindu burials

Water holds significant symbolism and importance in Hindu burials. It is considered a sacred element that represents purity, cleansing, and the cyclical nature of life and death. Here are some key significances of water in Hindu burials:

Purification: 

Water is believed to have purifying properties in Hinduism. It is used to cleanse the body and soul, washing away impurities and sins. In the context of burial, water is seen as a means of purifying the departed soul and facilitating its transition to the next realm.

Release and Liberation:

Immersing or scattering the ashes in water symbolizes the release and liberation of the soul. It signifies the detachment from the physical body and the merging of the individual consciousness with the divine and the greater cosmos.

Connection with Divinity:

Hinduism associates water bodies, especially sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and others, with divinity. These rivers are believed to have divine origins or blessings. Immersing the ashes in these rivers or other holy water bodies is seen as a way to connect the departed soul with the divine and seek blessings for their journey.

Continuity of Life:

Water is closely linked to the concept of the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Just as water evaporates, forms clouds, and then falls as rain, Hinduism teaches that life is an unending process of birth, death, and reincarnation. The act of returning the body’s remains to water emphasizes this cycle and the belief in the continuity of life beyond death.

Symbolic Dissolution:

Water represents dissolution and dissolution of the physical form. It signifies the impermanence of the body and the transient nature of worldly existence. By submerging or scattering the ashes in water, it is believed that the individual’s identity and physical limitations dissolve, allowing the soul to transcend into a higher state of being.

Spiritual Cleansing:

The act of immersing oneself or the ashes in water is often seen as a form of spiritual cleansing and seeking blessings. It is believed to wash away any residual negative energies and provide a fresh start for the departed soul.

Overall, water plays a profound role in Hindu burial at sea services by symbolizing purification, release, connection with the divine, continuity of life, dissolution, and spiritual cleansing. It holds deep spiritual significance and is regarded as a medium through which the departed soul can find peace, liberation, and spiritual transcendence.

The Sacred Pacific Ocean

The Pacific Ocean holds a revered place in Hindu spirituality as a sacred body of water safeguarded by Varuna, the guardian of the west and lord of the oceans. Varuna, one of the oldest deities in the Hindu pantheon, symbolizes strength and courage. According to Hindu beliefs, Varuna’s divine presence watches over the vast expanse of the Pacific, imbuing it with a sense of sanctity and protection. As the lord of the oceans, Varuna is entrusted with maintaining the cosmic order and balance within the waters, making the Pacific a symbol not only of natural beauty but also of spiritual significance. The ocean’s waves echo with the ancient reverence for Varuna, inviting contemplation of the enduring strength and timeless courage embodied by this revered deity.