Akaal; Rituals and Traditions at Death

Introduction

When a loved one passes away, emotions of grief and loss arise. In many spiritual traditions, death is also seen as a reunion with the Creator, The One, The Universe. Something to celebrate. This complex view of death is reflected in the mantra Akaal, which plays a central role in the rituals surrounding death. In this article, we explore the meaning of Akaal, its history, and the rituals that help in coping with loss.

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About Healing, Recovery and Resilience

Everyone experiences periods of loss. Losing a loved one can force you to rediscover who you are and how to move on. We are confronted with emotions; sadness, loss and sometimes even confusion. In these moments of mourning, rituals, symbols and actions offer comfort.

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The Meaning of Akaal

The mantra Akaal literally means "no death," "immortal," or "timeless." The word is composed of two parts: "A" meaning "not" and "Kaal" meaning "death" or "time." This mantra reminds the Soul that it is intrinsically immortal. Chanting Akaal is a powerful means of guiding the Soul of the deceased into the afterlife.

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Historical Context of the Sikh Tradition

In the Sikh tradition, death is not seen as a final end, but as a transition. Sikhs believe in reincarnation and the cycle of sins and virtues. Life on earth is only a stage in the journey of the soul, which ultimately returns to God. The teachers of Sikhism, the Gurus, emphasized the importance of remembering death and living with a spiritual purpose.

In the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy text of the Sikhs, the concepts of karma, reincarnation, and the immortality of the Soul are discussed extensively. The Gurus taught that the soul cannot die, because it is only the form of the body that changes. The mantra Akaal fits this view by emphasizing the immortality of the Soul.

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Rituals and Ceremonies surrounding Death

At death there are several rituals and ceremonies that are followed to facilitate the transition of the Soul:

1. Moment of Death:

   • At the time of death, the dying person focuses on God and Guru. This helps them connect with the divine and overcome the fear of death.
   • Playing Gurbani Kirtan, a form of musical recitation (chanting) of sacred texts. It provides solace and strengthens the sense of community.

Chanting of Japji Sahib:

At death, the Japji Sahib is recited. This recitation helps to guide the soul during its transition to the afterlife.

The Mantra Akaal:

Chanting Akaal at the time of death guides the Soul of the deceased in its journey to the Akaal Purakh, the immortal being. This process is important because it helps the Soul to detach from earthly ties and move on its spiritual path.

The tradition is to sing Akaal during the first 17 days after death. The Soul is timeless, so Akaal can also be sung at any time after leaving the body. The person singing keeps the intention of the Soul that she wants to release in mind while singing.

Preparation of the Body:

After death, the body is prepared for cremation. This usually happens within three days. The traditional method is to wash the body with homemade yogurt and then dress it in clean, new clothes. The body is wrapped in a clean white cloth.

Cremation Ceremony:

During the cremation (as is normal in India) the Japji Sahib and Kirtan Sohila are recited alternately. This helps the Soul in its transition and ensures that the spiritual energy is concentrated.

Aftercare for the Deceased:

After the cremation, an Ardas, a prayer, is recited. This prayer asks for God's blessings on the soul of the deceased and on the family and friends left behind.

Listen here to a special playlist on Spotify that I have created for around the passing. This playlist is specially composed for western farewell rituals and is inspired by the principles of Kundalini Yoga and Sikhism.

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The Role of Music and Community

Music plays an important role in Sikh rituals surrounding death. It not only provides solace to the mourners but also helps the soul of the deceased in its journey. The community and/or family often comes together to pray, meditate and sing Kirtan, creating a sense of togetherness during difficult times.

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Discover Your Connection to Immortality and the Soul

You can also discover your connection to immortality and the Soul through the meditation Akaal Mahakaal. This meditation helps you to expand your consciousness and experience the essence of the immortal Soul.

Watch the meditation here: Akaal Mahakaal Meditation

Reflection and Memory

It is important to reflect on the impact of loss and the role rituals play in your recovery. Chanting the mantra Akaal is a powerful tool in this process, as it reminds you of the immortality of the Soul and the connection to the divine.

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Are you experiencing loss or grief, even if it happened a while ago?

On my yoga platform you will find a beautiful lesson in which the powerful mantra Akaal is central. This lesson offers you valuable insights and exercises that help you to process these emotions in your body and Mind, and to get back in touch with your inner strength. Try 7 days for free!

For a more personal approach I also offer Kundalini Yoga coaching , an individual process that supports you in your unique healing journey. Discover how the technique of Kundalini Yoga can help you find joy and peace, even in difficult times.