Funerary Urns


The first image shown is a funeral urn found in Korea. The urn was made in the 7th century during the Unified Silla period. The urn shown is an “inner” urn, which was used to hold cremated remains. Though it is not shown in the image, the inner urn was inserted into an outer stone casket, made of granite, which served as a protective container for the inner urn. The body of the inner urn has a round base with a short mouth, and a ledge for the lid. The body of the urn is decorated with patterns and shapes.

After the introduction of Buddhism to Korea in 372CE, Korean burial practices underwent a significant change. The traditional custom of burying the deceased in tombs was replaced by the practice of cremation. Although cremation had already existed before the unification of the Three Kingdoms, it was the ruling classes of Silla, following unification, who began adopting cremation funerals, leading to its widespread acceptance. The ashes of the cremated remains were either scattered in mountains or rivers or placed in urns for burial. 

Footed bowl made of grey-brown gritty stoneware with incised decorations. Korean Funerary Urn 7th century Stoneware and clay Base (diameter): 7 in. (17.8 cm); rim diameter: 3 3/8 in. (8.6 cm); Overall (height): 5 in. (12.7 cm) Gift of James and Marvelle Adams in honor of William Lowe Bryan, Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University 60.44




Resources

Resource 1

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(Image credit: The Met Museum)

Buddhism- Britannica

Buddhist cremation culture in Asia is deeply rooted in the beliefs and practices of Buddhism. Cremation is considered a significant and sacred ritual for Buddhists, as it symbolizes the impermanence of life and the cycle of birth and death. 
In Buddhist teachings, it is believed that death is not the end of existence but a transition to another life or state of being. Cremation plays a crucial role in this process by releasing the physical body and allowing the soul to be liberated from its earthly attachments. The act of cremation is seen as a means of purifying and transforming the deceased's remains, facilitating their spiritual journey.

Buddhist cremation ceremonies vary across different Asian countries and regions, influenced by local customs and traditions. In many Buddhist cultures, such as those in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Tibet, cremation is the preferred method of disposing of the deceased's body. 

During a Buddhist cremation ceremony, various rituals and practices are observed. These may include chanting of sacred texts, prayers for the deceased's liberation, offerings of incense, flowers, and food, and the lighting of the funeral pyre. The cremated remains, known as ashes or cremains, are typically collected and placed in a funerary urn or scattered in a meaningful location, such as a sacred river or mountain.