Sky burial

Sky burial site, Yerpa Valley

Drigung monastery

Vultures on Lhasa sky burial rock 1

Ragbya carries corps from Lhasa for Sky burial

Bundesarchiv Bild 135-S-12-50-06, Tibetexpedition, Ragyapa, Geier

Vulture feeding on body detail, sky burial art with vultures at Litang Monastery, Tibet in 2009 (cropped)

Sky burial is a funeral practice in which a human corpse is placed on a mountaintop to decompose while exposed to the elements or to be eaten by scavenging animals, especially carrion birds. It is a specific type of the general practice of excarnation. Sky burials are most often associated with the Tibetan culture in China, where it is known as jha-tor, which translates to "giving alms to the birds."

Origins and Practice

The origins of sky burial remain somewhat obscure, but it is believed to have been practiced in the region for thousands of years. The practice is closely tied to Vajrayana Buddhism's teachings on the impermanence of life and the importance of compassion towards all beings. According to these beliefs, the body after death is merely an empty vessel, and offering it to the birds is seen as an act of generosity and a means to help sustain other life forms.

Sky burials are traditionally carried out on elevated locations, such as mountaintops, where the body can be left undisturbed by humans and easily accessed by birds. The process begins with a lama or a priest chanting prayers to guide the deceased's spirit towards reincarnation. The body is then prepared, which may involve cleaning and cutting it into smaller pieces to make it easier for the birds to consume. This task is performed by a rogyapa, or body breaker, who carries out the work with respect and care, ensuring that the process reflects the spiritual beliefs of the community.

Cultural Significance

Sky burial has deep cultural significance within Tibetan society. It is seen as a final act of charity by the deceased, providing sustenance to other living beings. The practice also reflects the Buddhist teachings on the transitory nature of life and the importance of detachment from the physical body.

In addition to its religious and cultural dimensions, sky burial has practical aspects. The rocky, mountainous terrain of Tibet makes traditional ground burial difficult, and the scarcity of wood makes cremation a less viable option. Thus, sky burial emerged not only as a spiritual practice but also as a practical solution to the challenges posed by the natural environment.

Contemporary Issues

In recent years, sky burial has faced challenges due to changing social attitudes, government regulations, and the impact of tourism. The practice is sometimes misunderstood or viewed negatively by those outside the Tibetan culture, leading to misconceptions and stigma. Additionally, regulations imposed by the Chinese government have, at times, restricted the practice, citing public health concerns. The influx of tourists eager to witness sky burials has also raised issues of respect and privacy, prompting some communities to limit access to these ceremonies.

Despite these challenges, sky burial remains an important practice for many Tibetans, embodying their spiritual beliefs and cultural values. Efforts are being made to preserve the tradition while addressing contemporary concerns, ensuring that this ancient practice continues to hold meaning for future generations.

See Also

• Death in Tibetan Buddhism
• Funeral practices
• Vajrayana Buddhism
• Tibetan culture