The culture of dying

Our culture influences how we think, speak and sometimes avoid conversations about death. We explore different cultural, religious and philosophical perspectives on death and dying, inviting reflection, understanding and more open conversations about a part of life we all share, no matter our religion.

The culture of dying

Our culture influences how we think, speak and sometimes avoid conversations about death. We explore different cultural, religious and philosophical perspectives on death and dying, inviting reflection, understanding and more open conversations about a part of life we all share, no matter our religion.

The culture of dying

Our culture influences how we think, speak and sometimes avoid conversations about death. We explore different cultural, religious and philosophical perspectives on death and dying, inviting reflection, understanding and more open conversations about a part of life we all share, no matter our religion.

Dying in different cultures 

People understand death and dying in different ways, shaped by culture, faith, tradition and personal belief.

These videos explore how death and dying are viewed across seven different religions and belief systems. We speak to faith leaders about what happens at the end of life, what their religion teaches about death, and how people are supported when someone is dying or has died.

You may be here because you are supporting someone from a particular faith or background who’s dying, because you want to better understand a loved one’s beliefs, or because you are curious about how different cultures make sense of death.

There is no right or wrong way to think about dying.

Death and dying in Christianity

Christian beliefs about death often focus on what happens after we die, the meaning of suffering, and the hope of eternal life. Explore how Christians approach dying, the role of prayer and faith at the end of life, and how families are supported through loss.

It also touches on common questions such as: What does Christianity say about death? and Is there life after death in Christianity?

Death and dying in Islam

Islamic beliefs about death focus on acceptance, faith, and preparation for what comes next. Explore how Muslims think about dying, what happens after death in Islam, and how prayer, ritual and family support shape the end of life experience.

It reflects on questions such as: How do Muslims view death? and What does Islam teach about the afterlife?

Death and dying in Sikh Dharm

Sikh beliefs about death are closely tied to ideas of the soul, life as a journey, and spiritual continuity. Explore how Sikhs may understand dying, how death is viewed within Sikh teachings, and how community and faith support people through loss.

It offers insight into questions like: What do Sikhs believe happens when we die?

Death and dying in Hinduism

Hindu beliefs about death often centre around ideas of rebirth, karma and the soul’s journey. Explore what Hindus believe happens after death, the role of ritual, and how families are supported during dying and bereavement.

It reflects on common questions such as: What happens after death in Hinduism? and How do Hindus view dying?

Death and dying in Buddhism

Buddhist beliefs about death focus on impermanence, compassion and awareness. This film explores how Buddhists may think about dying, how mindfulness can shape the end-of-life experience, and what happens after death according to Buddhist teachings.

It helps explore questions such as: What do Buddhists believe about death? and How is dying approached in Buddhism?

Death and dying in Humanism

Humanism approaches death without religious belief, focusing instead on meaning, relationships and the legacy a person leaves behind. Explore how humanists think about dying, what happens when someone dies, and how people find comfort through connection and memory.

It may help with questions such as: What do humanists believe about death? and How do non religious people make sense of dying?

If you are supporting someone who is dying

If you are here because someone you love is approaching the end of their life, you may find it helpful to explore our other Support Hub resources.

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