Scottish funerals have naturally changed throughout the years, but have ultimately merged into something that provides comfort to the families and honour the lives of the deceased.
This guide into the Scottish funeral traditions aims to explore the key elements that make them unique, offering insights into the rituals, attire and much more that have been passed down through the generations.
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History of Scottish Funerals
The roots of Scottish funerals can be traced back to the ancient Celts who lived in Scotland over two millennia ago. The Celts had a beautiful view of death and said it was not the end but a transition into another realm.
They believed in the afterlife where the deceased soul would continue its journey elsewhere. This not only was a beautiful belief, but it brought comfort and a sense of acceptance rather than the fear of death.
This is where the thoughts of omens and signs came from. The Celts believed the appearance of certain animals or natural phenomena was a s sign forewarning of death. These were accepted as part of life’s natural cycle.
Examples of Signs and Omens
- Raven or Crow: Seeing these birds was often associated with the Gods of War and to some people, was a sign the death was looming.
- The Howling of Dogs at Night: Hearing dogs howl without a known reason was seen that the evil spirits were near and that a death was coming soon.
- Dreaming of teeth falling out: Dreaming of your teeth falling out was seen to some that death was coming to them or their family.
Pagan rituals were integrated into Scottish funerals when Christianity came to Scotland around the 6th century. This blending of beliefs combined into unique funeral customs that honored the ancient Celtic ways of funerals, but also integrated new religious teachings.
Rituals such as covering mirrors and stopping clocks upon death were believed to stop the soul from becoming trapped.
A quote from a Scottish magazine written in 1819 reads:
“When one expires, the clock is immediately stopped, and the dial-plate, covered with a towel; mirrors are also covered in a similar manner. All the cats belonging to the house are caught, and put in immediate confinement”.
Community and Family
Announcing the Death
In most traditional Scottish communities, the news of the death was spread by solely word of mouth. The family and community would share the information personally.
Today, while obituaries in newspapers and online funeral announcements are common, there is still a hige emphasis on community awareness.
The Wake
The wake is a core part of funeral traditions in Scotland. This is held before the funeral, and it is a time for family, close friends and the wider community to offer condolences and usually see the body before the coffin is closed for good for the funeral. It would typically be held in the family home. This practice provides collective mourning and an opportunity for support
Historically, wakes included “wake watching”, where someone would stay with the body at all times until the day of the funeral. This was a way of showing respect and protecting the body from evil spirits. While not as common as before, wake-watching is still done by some families.
Funeral Attire
Traditional Clothing
Men: Wearing kilts made from their clan’s tartan is a common practice. The tartan represents the family heritage. Usually accompanied by a black jacket, white shirt and a tie to reflect honour.
Women: Women typically wear modest, dark dresses or suits. Some wear accessories such as a tartan sash or shawl, also linked with their family heritage.
Significance of Tartans
You will have probably seen Tartans before on Scottish attire. They are distinctive patterns of crisscrossed bands in multiple colours. Each pattern represents a specific Scottish clan or family.
Wearing the clan tartan is a sign of respect for the deceased and is a powerful connection to one’s ancestry.
The Funeral Service
The Scottish funeral service usually has 4 main parts to it.
- Gathering: Family and friends all come together at the church.
- Procession: The coffin is brought in, usually with some traditional bagpipe music playing.
- Ceremony:
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- Welcome: A minister or celebrant opens with words of comfort.
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- Readings: Passages from the Bible or other literature are read that hold meaning for the deceased. Popular ones from the Bible include St. Padre Pio, who people who are sick often find comfort in.
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- Eulogies: This is when the family and friends share fond memories and stories of the deceased, often sharing funny mannerisms or quirks of them.
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- Music: Traditional hymns and songs may be sung, with a bagpiper playing laments.
- Final Farewell: Prayers are offered and there may be a moment of silence held.
Our funeral plans walk you through every step of the way and we provide support to answer and questions you may have.
Funeral Procession and Burial Customs
After the service, a funeral procession continues its journey towards the burial site. The procession is a solemn journey and is another sign of respect for the deceased.
Close family or friends may carry the coffin, or will walk alongside the hearse.
At the graveyard, a brief ceremony takes place. The minister will offer his final words and prayers. Family and friends may toss a handful of soil or a flower onto the coffin as a personal farewell.
Following the burial, the family will typically hold a reception known as a “funeral tea”. This gathering allows the friends and family to support each other, share stories and is known as a celebration of life.
Modern Adaptations
While traditional burials are still common, cremations have become increasingly popular and accepted in Scotland.
When they are cremated, some families may scatter ashes in places that hold a personal significance to the deceased. These can be their favourite places, natural landscapes or anywhere else. Others may choose not to scatter them and keep them in their home.
Advancements in technology have also influenced Scottish funerals. Many churches now have a livestream service for those who are unable to attend the funeral in person.
Some online obituaries also allow people to share their condolences online. Often sharing nice memories and offering support to the family.
Scottish Funeral Etiquette
Punctuality
Arriving on time is very important. Showing up late may be seen as disrespectful and it may also disturb the funeral process. Plan out your day prior to the funeral to avoid any delays.
Expressing Sympathy
Simple phrases like “I’m very sorry for your loss” or “My thoughts are with you” are appropriate. Try to avoid talking for too long to the grieving family as they may not want to speak at this time.
Offering help with tasks, bringing food or offering a chat to them can provide comfort to the bereaved.
Attire and Behaviour
Wearing appropriate, modest attire is a sign of respect and reflects the solemnity of the day. Close friends and family would typically wear black or dark clothing, but this isn’t expected of everyone and is a personal choice.
It’s important to be silent during the funeral service and participate when appropriate. Having your phone on silent, avoiding chatting and refraining from any disrespectful behaviour is also important.
Conclusion
Scottish funeral traditions blend ancient customs with modern practices. They are beautifully structured and provide a way to honour the deceased, provide support to the family, and celebrating their life. These traditions offer a sense of unity and respect that resonates long after the funeral has ended.
Whether its a more traditional funeral or a modern blend, Scottish funeral traditions continue to provide solace and bring communities together during these tough times.
