Asia's Three Paths of Departure

In South Asian philosophy, underpinning traditions like Hinduism and certain Buddhist schools, the ultimate reality of existence is understood through the concepts of the immortal soul (Atman) and the cycle of death and rebirth (Samsara). The physical body is conceptually viewed as nothing more than a temporary, worn-out vessel that the soul has discarded in its eternal journey. Therefore, the funeral rites are not primarily focused on preserving the body, but on actively assisting the soul’s detachment and successful continuation of its journey.