A period where the deceased’s body is present, usually embalmed and dressed, in a casket, allowing relatives and friends to pay their respects. This occasion commonly precedes the funeral service or cremation and offers an opportunity for mourners to see the deceased one last time. The setting is often a funeral home, church, or the family’s residence.
The practice provides significant emotional and psychological benefits. It allows individuals to begin the grieving process, find closure, and offer condolences to the bereaved. Historically, such gatherings have been integral to mourning rituals across cultures, serving as a crucial step in acknowledging the reality of death and supporting community healing. The availability of this event allows more people to collectively say goodbye and share memories of the departed.
