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Viewings and wakes are a part of funeral traditions that help many people cope with the passing of a loved one. These customary events stem from the wakes held hundreds of years ago. Though similar in nature and concept, viewings and wakes aren’t the same events. Viewings are the modern interpretation of a tradition that predates Christianity. Below is a brief look at how this custom started and how it is still observed today. 

The History of Wakes

“Wake” derives from the same root word as “watch,” which was really what a wake was intended for. Family members were intended to watch over the deceased loved one from the time of passing to their burial. In ancient societies, particularly in Northern European locations such as Ireland, wakes were held at the home of the deceased. The family and friends would hold vigil over the loved one in shifts until the time of burial to ensure safe passage into the afterlife.

The superstitions of Celts and the Anglo-Saxons made their vigils a protective measure to ward off evil spirits that may try to inhabit the body of the deceased loved one. Though some have suggested wakes were held to make sure the deceased people were really gone and didn’t wake up prior to burial, it’s more than likely a myth. Traditional wakes were either religiously focused or centered around food, drink, and fond remembrance of the deceased. These traditions came to the United States with Irish immigrants in the 19th century. 

Modern Wakes

Funeral homes began popping up in the late 1800s, offering a place outside of the home to care for the deceased. With the body out of the home, the concept of wakes began to change. Visitations and viewings are a nod to the tradition of wakes by allowing loved ones to spend time with the body of the deceased, surrounded by family. Typically held in funeral homes, the body is prepared and placed into a casket for viewing. A day is selected for the deceased’s loved ones to gather and comfort one another.

The term wake can also be used for the reception that follows the funeral service or burial. This gathering usually involves food and may be held at a family member’s home, a church, or a local restaurant.

 

The passing of a loved one is a difficult time. Let the funeral directors at E.C. Nurre Funeral Home in Amelia, OH, help ease the stress of this situation. For over 140 years, this family-owned funeral home has been helping families with their funeral planning from start to finish. They work closely with the family to plan personalized and respectful funeral services and memorials to commemorate your loved one. Learn more about their services online or call them today at (513) 753-6130. 

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