# Bahá’í funerals

> Bahá’í law asks for burial rather than cremation, within one hour’s journey of the place of death, and without embalming unless the law requires it. The body is washed and wrapped in silk or cotton, a burial ring is placed on the finger of adults, and the congregational Prayer for the Dead is recited. The service is simple and can include readings from any faith.

Source: https://funeralfinder.org/faiths/bahai/ — FuneralFinder

## Key facts

- **Burial or cremation:** Burial
- **Location:** Within one hour’s journey from the place of death
- **Embalming:** Avoided unless required by law
- **Prayer:** The Prayer for the Dead, for adults aged 15 and over

## What to expect

There is no clergy in the Bahá’í Faith, so the family or the local Spiritual Assembly arranges a simple service of prayers, readings and music. Anyone may attend.
Every family and community is different. Use this as a starting point, follow the wishes of the person who died, and ask their faith leader or community for guidance.

## Etiquette

- **What to wear:** Smart, modest clothing.
- **What to say:** Simple condolences.
- **Flowers:** Flowers are welcome.

## FAQs

### Can Bahá’ís be cremated?

No. Bahá’í law asks for burial, ideally within an hour’s travel of where the person died.