Why is the 49th day important in Buddhism?

In traditional Buddhist thought the 49 days after death are a period of transition, marked by rituals every seven days. The 49th-day service closes that period.

When are Buddhist memorial services held?

Commonly on the seventh day and the 49th day, then on the 100th day and anniversaries. The exact days depend on the tradition.

Are Buddhist memorial services for the person who died?

It depends on the tradition. In Jodo Shinshu, the services are held for those who remain, as a time to hear the teaching and give thanks.

Faith and culture

Buddhist funeral customs

Buddhist funerals are followed by memorial services that mark set days after the death. Here is what to expect, for the family arranging the funeral and for guests.

Buddhism includes many traditions, such as Theravada, Zen, Tibetan and Pure Land, and families from many countries. The temple or minister is the best guide to your family's practice.

Timing

In traditional Buddhist thought there is a 49-day period after death, with rituals every seven days.

At Buddhist Churches of America temples, a Pure Land (Jodo Shinshu) tradition, it is common to hold a service on the seventh day after the death and on the 49th day.

Preparing the body

Ask the temple whether your family's tradition has preferences about the body, such as when cremation should happen.

The service

Ask the family's temple who will lead the funeral and the memorial services that follow.

In the Jodo Shinshu tradition, memorial services are not held for the benefit of the person who died but for those who remain, as a time to hear the teaching and give thanks.

Mourning

Further memorial services are often held on the 100th day and on the first anniversary.

Jodo Shinshu families then hold memorials in later years, such as the third, seventh, 13th, 17th, 25th, 33rd and 50th.

For guests

If you are not sure what is expected, ask someone close to the family. Plain, dark clothes are a safe choice unless the family asks otherwise.

Questions to ask a funeral home

Can our minister or monk lead the service in your chapel?
Can guests offer incense during the service?
Can you coordinate the timing of the cremation with our temple?
Can you help us arrange the seventh-day and 49th-day services?

Common questions

Why is the 49th day important in Buddhism?: In traditional Buddhist thought the 49 days after death are a period of transition, marked by rituals every seven days. The 49th-day service closes that period.
When are Buddhist memorial services held?: Commonly on the seventh day and the 49th day, then on the 100th day and anniversaries. The exact days depend on the tradition.
Are Buddhist memorial services for the person who died?: It depends on the tradition. In Jodo Shinshu, the services are held for those who remain, as a time to hear the teaching and give thanks.

Funeral homes near you

Call two or three homes and compare their written price lists.

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Sources

Memorial services, Buddhist Churches of America, Southern District Ministers' Association
The significance of the 49th-day memorial, Midwest Buddhist Temple

Last reviewed October 20, 2026. Customs differ between families and communities; the family, clergy or temple are the best guide.