Cultural Anthropology for Missions

CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY FOR MISSIONS
M.M.NINAN
Death is probably a major crisis in every family. The traditional
funeral rites allows for smooth rehabilitation by twain, the relatives
through, three fundamental steps necessary for restoration.
1. It takes them out of their shock period by making them aware of
the fact that the person is dead and will never be able to return.
This is made clear by the arrival of the relative and friends in a
continuous stream.
a. This leads to the second step of sorrow, as the relatives and
friends reminiscence, recounts and wails. This probably will go on
for two or three days.
3. After these periods wailing will slowly die down and drumming
and dancing will slowly creep in. The visitors will start playing
games and the life's rhythm goes on. The life rhythm is restored and
the relatives have been able to rearrange their lives without the
dead person. A new family relation is set up without the dead
person.
Though some or all of these ceremonies may have no meaning in
themselves their importance in stabilizing and providing normal
balance in society should not be forgotten.
Christian church also has its own rites. Baptism is one of' the most
important rites of passage in the church. As a person is born again
his relationship with people in, his past life changes into a new one.
He may have to tore out certain friends and take in new people in
79