This page may contain affiliate links. If you choose to interact with or purchase from another business, we may receive payment. Learn more.
The traditional German funeral is steeped in age-old customs and beliefs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Knowing what to expect can help those attending or participating in a German funeral service to better understand and appreciate the solemn event.
German death traditions and beliefs
The belief that death is an inescapable part of life is deeply rooted in German culture. It is not uncommon to hear the phrase, “death comes to us all” at a funeral. Death holds significant meaning in Germany; it is seen as a transformation from one state of being to another rather than as an end or a termination. This is why the traditions of the funeral ceremony are intended to bridge the gap between life and death, not only for those who have passed on, but also for family members and friends still living.
German beliefs around burial vs. cremation
Though burial is the most common practice for German funerals, cremation is becoming increasingly popular in Germany. German Catholics generally prefer burial, while Protestants are more likely to choose cremation.
German funeral traditions
Traditionally, Germans do not opt for wakes or viewings that have open caskets. The actual service is usually held at a church or other religious building; however, it can also take place in a cemetery chapel or another suitable location.
The order of a German service typically starts with readings, prayers, and singing led by the clergy member officiating the ceremony. Then there may be an opportunity for family members and friends to give speeches or share memories of their loved one. Following this is a final German funeral blessing from the clergy member and then a procession out of the building.
When the service is held in a cemetery, there may be an additional ritual known as the burial blessing, or Grabessegen, at which time family members and friends take turns placing earth on the coffin before it is lowered into the ground. This ritual symbolizes acceptance of death and emphasizes the finality of life.
It is common for a reception to be held after the funeral, where guests are invited to share food, share stories, and remember the life of their loved one.
What do I wear to a German funeral service?
When attending a German funeral, it is customary to wear dark clothing. Men usually wear suits and ties, while women typically dress in dark-colored dresses or skirts and blouses.
What kind of food is served at a German funeral reception?
At the reception following a German funeral service, a variety of foods are typically served. Traditional dishes such as sausages, potatoes, and cabbage are common. Other popular foods include pretzels, breads, fruits, vegetables, pastries, and Zuckerkuchen funeral cakes.
What do Germans believe in or practice after the funeral?
In Germany, it is a common practice to visit the grave of a loved one on special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. This serves as an important reminder that though someone has passed, their memory and their life is not forgotten. Additionally, it is customary to light candles in memory of those who have passed away.
German funeral traditions and beliefs are steeped in history and symbolism that can be both meaningful and comforting to those who have lost a loved one. By understanding the customs, rituals, and foods associated with German funerals, it is possible to gain insight into their deep-rooted meaning and appreciate them for all that they represent. Additionally, having an understanding of what to expect can help those attending or participating in a German funeral service to better understand and appreciate the solemn event.
Want to see more articles like this?
Like us on Facebook:
Last updated September 21, 2023
FAQs
The etiquette at German funerals is of a traditional nature. Dark clothes are worn by mourners, black and sometimes sunglasses by those close to the deceased. In the past, according to some, widows had to wear black for up to 5 years and some wore black for the rest of their life.
What were the Germanic burial customs? ›
Burial Rites. The Germanic peoples practiced both cremation and inhumation throughout their pre-Christian history. Cremation itself was generally completed by placing the ashes in an urn and burying the urn. Inhumed corpses are often found accompanied by grave goods such as armor, food, or even other corpses.
How do Germans honor the dead? ›
In some parts of Germany, many people visit the graves of their loved ones on All Saints' Day. This is also a significant holiday in Poland. Millions of families light candles, place fresh flowers on graves and offer prayers for the souls of the departed.
How do Germans deal with grief? ›
Sadness about the loss of a dear one is expressed, for example, in crying, wearing black clothes and symbols like a photo of the deceased person with a black sash. Personal grief is generally expressed inwardly and quietly rather than outwardly and loudly.
What are some German customs and traditions? ›
Exploring Germany: 6 German Traditions and the Meaning Behind Them
- Hanging Lost Items in Trees.
- Early Christmas Celebrations.
- Fireworks and Watching "Dinner for One" on New Year's Eve.
- Karneval.
- Time Off Is Taken Very Seriously.
- Underage Kids Can Drink (Sometimes)
- Oktoberfest.
- Nudity Is Something Normal.
Funeral & Mourning Customs
Families should always be consulted before a body is touched. Any jewelry or religious symbols should be left on the body, covered with a white sheet. During the funeral, the expression of grief is usually open, and wailing and crying are encouraged.
What is the German celebration of the dead? ›
Totensonntag (German: [ˈtoːtn̩zɔntaːk], Sunday of the Dead), also called Ewigkeitssonntag (Eternity Sunday) or Totenfest, is a Protestant religious holiday in Germany and Switzerland, commemorating the faithful departed.
What is the death culture in Germany? ›
The belief that death is an inescapable part of life is deeply rooted in German culture. It is not uncommon to hear the phrase, “death comes to us all” at a funeral. Death holds significant meaning in Germany; it is seen as a transformation from one state of being to another rather than as an end or a termination.
What do cemeteries do with old bodies in Germany? ›
When bodies don't decompose, their graves can't be reused -- a common practice in Germany. Contrary to many other countries, where final resting places are traditionally maintained in perpetuity, Germany recycles cemetery plots after a period of 15 to 25 years.
What do Germans say when someone passes away? ›
The standard thing to say when approaching a person who lost someone is: Mein herzliches Beileid. (My sincere condolences.)
Say it with flowers
In Germany, even flowers follow rules: Flowers are always given in odd numbers – but never 13. Red roses symbolize romantic intentions, carnations on the other hand symbolize mourning, and lilies and chrysanthemums are usually used in floral arrangements for funerals.
What to do when a relative dies in Germany? ›
WHAT TO DO IN GERMANY AFTER A LOVED ONE HAS DIED
- Call a doctor. ...
- Gather Documents. ...
- Determine who is paying for the funeral. ...
- Finding a Funeral Home. ...
- Inform Relatives & Employers. ...
- Contact Insurance Companies. ...
- Apply for the Death Certificate. ...
- Clear out the Room in Care Institutions.
Early Germanic beliefs about the afterlife are not well known; however, the sources indicate a variety of beliefs, including belief in an underworld, continued life in the grave, a world of the dead in the sky, and reincarnation. Beliefs varied by time and place and may have contradictory in the same time and place.
Why can't you keep ashes in Germany? ›
A 1934 law, Der Friedhofszwang literally means "cemetery obligation" and states that all remains, whether in a coffin or urn, must have a final resting place in a cemetery. The law was initially to protect public health because there was a fear that decaying bodies buried in any old place could cause an epidemic.
What is the German attitude towards death? ›
“Most Germans still have a small-c conservative attitude to death”, said Brown, 45, a dual British-German citizen. “The organ music at the start of the funeral, the church bells on the walk to the grave: to many people these rituals still matter”.
What is the process when someone dies in Germany? ›
If your loved one dies at home, the first thing you need to do is notify a doctor. Usually this is your general practitioner (Hausarzt). If you are unable to reach them, you can call the emergency services. The doctor will confirm that the person has died and provide a preliminary death certificate (Totenschein).
What to send for a German funeral? ›
White flowers, such as white roses and lilies, are often a popular choice for sympathy bouquets as they symbolize purity, innocence, and honor. These German funeral flowers can be incorporated into a bouquet with other flowers or arranged as a standalone bouquet.
How do you express condolences in German? ›
The standard thing to say when approaching a person who lost someone is: Mein herzliches Beileid. (My sincere condolences.)
