1.
49th day memorial service
The most important Buddhist memorial service, held 49 days after death. Believed to be when the deceased's fate in the afterlife is determined.
In Buddhist belief, the soul undergoes judgment every seven days for 49 days, after which its next rebirth is determined.
KEY CONCEPTS:
- 忌明け: end of mourning period (after 49 days)
- 中陰: the 49-day period between death and rebirth
- 香典返し: return gifts sent after the 49th day
CUSTOMS:
- 仮祭壇 (temporary altar) is removed
- 本位牌 (permanent memorial tablet) replaces temporary one
- Mourning restrictions on celebration end