When selecting burial items for the deceased, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, these items need not be extravagant or expensive; ideally, they should be objects that the deceased cherished during their lifetime-such as a smoking pipe or a string of prayer beads. Such items not only reflect the deceased's personal tastes but also serve, to some extent, to provide emotional solace to the bereaved family.
When placing these burial items, ensure that they are arranged around the perimeter of the coffin or urn, rather than being placed directly on top of the urn. Placing items directly atop the urn is believed to potentially have a negative impact on the spinal health of future generations.
Prior to the interment, it is imperative to clear the burial chamber of any weeds or debris, thereby maintaining a clean and tidy environment around the grave site. Additionally, it is customary to burn "spirit money" (joss paper) inside the burial chamber; one must ensure that the paper is completely and thoroughly consumed by the flames before proceeding with the burial.
It is also crucial to ensure that no visible footprints or handprints are left behind within the burial chamber; should any be inadvertently left, they must be promptly erased. Furthermore, care must be taken to ensure that neither the tears nor the shadows of the family members fall upon the coffin or the urn.
Selecting appropriate burial items serves not only as an act of respect toward the deceased but also as a means of invoking blessings and protection for future generations. By attending to these specific details, we are better able to honor the memory of the departed while simultaneously cultivating good fortune for those who follow.