Refrigerator Coffin

refrigerator coffin
Originally uploaded by oceanicthai.

Before the body is cremated, it is put in the house in a refrigerated coffin. (It is tropical and very hot here.) Lights are strung up, flower arrangements are placed around it, and in front there is a picture of the deceased. Near the coffin is a bowl for incense and candles. During the funeral, or wake you could say, the family makes meals and feeds the whole village for days until the cremation. It is not only emotionally devastating for the family of the deceased, but in addition they must feed and entertain the funeral guests. Guests give small money gifts to help cover the cost of everything.
When you attend a funeral, you are supposed to wear black or white.