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i think it would depend whether the person converted is willing or not. after all everyone just wants peace of mind; assurance of something better in the afterlife. if he/she believes that the conversion will ease his suffering and made that decision with a clear mind, i dont feel that is a problem
Agree… but the above is about ‘forced bedside conversion’ – as in the first line. It really does happen in Singapore – as some won’t respect ‘no thanks’
😥
If we have followed the Dharma while we are alive, is it still important to be seen following which religious rites on death? because I don’t believe anyone can escape karma just by just going through certain death rites.
But forced conversion is different from rites after death. It’s the forcing or pestering of someone to profess to a faith they don’t believe in.
It’s true the the rites after death might not be important, but this is so only to those who have already secured a good rebirth. Those who have not might still be around in the bardo state, and their emotions can be affected. Proper death rites can help create more merits to dedicate to and direct the deceased to a better rebirth.
Also, deceased sticklers for rituals which might not be useful can be not at peace if they witness things not done according to their wishes. In all Buddhist traditions, the quality of the last thought of the dying/deceased (death-proximate kamma) is important in ensuring a good rebirth. A thought filled with anguish/anger can lead to a lower rebirth, though only for a short period if the person did much good in everyday life.
Sometimes the one being converted is not able to talk/give consent due to serious illness/coma. However,the converter (with all good intentions) believes that the converted will go to heaven if he is converted before he dies. A ‘guaranteed’ good place upon death (is there anything so easily achieved?).
Still, it robs the converted of his freedom of choice. And to take advantage of someone at their most vulnerable state is akin to psychological murder. Hope that respect and good sense will prevail in the face of zealous propagation.
:ermm: