Why Is Cremation Forbidden on Fridays? Unveiling Ancient Beliefs Unrelated to Superstition

Why is cremation forbidden on Fridays? Unraveling the ancient Thai belief passed down through generations, delving into the astrological reasons and social wisdom hidden behind the homophony of the words “Friday” and “happiness.”

Why is cremation forbidden on Fridays? Revealing the little-known origins of this ancient belief.

In Thai society, from past to present, there have been many beliefs and taboos related to funerals. One well-known prohibition is “cremation is forbidden on Fridays.” At first glance, this may seem like a mere traditional taboo, but it actually has deep roots and hidden reasons.

The main reason ancient people forbade cremation on Fridays comes from a Thai language homophone, where the word “Friday” sounds like “happiness” which means joy and celebration. Thus, holding a sorrowful and inauspicious event like a cremation on a day symbolizing happiness is considered contradictory. It is believed that breaking this custom could bring endless sorrow or misfortune to the deceased’s family, as reflected in the old saying, “Cremate on Friday, bring suffering to the living.”

Astrological perspective on forbidding cremation on Fridays

Beyond the homophone, ancient Thai astrological texts, such as the Promachat, describe Friday as a “Fu Day,” an auspicious day suited for new beginnings, weddings, or housewarmings.

In astrology, Venus—the ruling planet of Friday—represents love, beauty, and the arts. Conducting a funeral on this day is seen as disrupting good fortune and introducing negative energy into a day meant for blessings.

“Cremation forbidden on Fridays” and the social wisdom of ancient people

From a social and psychological standpoint, the taboo also reflects clever traditional strategies, including

• Allowing time for families to grieve properly Friday often marks the end of the week. Avoiding cremations on this day extends the mourning period, enabling distant relatives to attend memorials conveniently during the weekend.
• Separating auspicious and inauspicious events Historically, communities held festive or auspicious events on Fridays. Banning funerals on this day helped prevent the atmosphere of grief from overshadowing neighbors’ celebrations.

Are there other days when cremation is forbidden?

Thai funeral customs don’t only restrict cremation on Fridays; other days are also avoided, such as

• Buddhist holy days, considered pure days for merit-making and abstaining from killing or inauspicious events.
• Thursdays, regarded as “Teacher’s Day,” when people pay respect and often hold ceremonies for teachers or commence education, making funerals inappropriate.

The question of why cremation is forbidden on Fridays is ultimately a blend of astrological beliefs, linguistic significance, and social management wisdom from ancient times. Although modern lifestyles have changed and some families may choose dates for convenience, this belief remains a cultural reflection that respects both the deceased and the living.