According to the Talmud, in the past, flowers were an essential part of a Jewish funeral. They served a practical purpose – to hide the smells emitted from the deceased. However, in modern times, fragrant flowers, or any flowers at all, have been deemed unnecessary and are no longer welcome at a Jewish funeral. In their place, contributions can be made to a synagogue, organization or hospital in remembrance of the deceased. These monetary contributions are considered the norm.

This is not to say that it is against the religion – it simply is not a custom that is followed.

If sympathy flowers must be sent, it is best to address them to the home of the bereaved, rather than to the location of the service. Sprays, simple bouquets and tributes may be appropriate, however it is best to avoid arrangements that are ostentatious. This goes for the clothing worn to the service as well. Because Jewish funerals take place very shortly after the deceased has passed away, the flowers are often received by the bereaved during the mourning period, known as Shiva. Shiva traditionally lasts a week (but is shorter in recent times) during which the family stays at home to grieve.

Alternatively, flowers may also be presented to the bereaved so that they may be placed at the burial site. However, this should not be done during the service.

Gift Baskets
While there is no law that says flowers are forbidden, sending something else that conveys your sentiments may be more appropriate. You can avoid making the situation more unpleasant by sending something that is customary – a gift basket.

A gift basket filled with food is ideal. It may be a fruit basket or a basket of other edible goods, however it is vital that all are designated Kosher. A card can be included with a simple message expressing your sincerity.

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Founded in mid 19th century Persia (encompassing modern day Iran), the Bahá’í Faith is known as the world’s youngest independent religions with anywhere from five to six million followers worldwide. Simplicity and flexibility are the religion’s trademarks, which also defines its funeral customs.

While other religions are fraught with rites and rituals that must be strictly followed, the Bahá’í Faith has no clergy, sacraments or rituals. Funerals are simple, with the saying of a congregational prayer from the Bahá’í Sacred Writings performed prior to the burial of the deceased. The burial should take place within two or three days after death and an hour’s drive of where the actual place of death occurred.

Flowers are appropriate for a Bahá’í funeral, as indicated by the founder of the religion, Bahá’u'lláh. Visitors may wear casual or formal attire (according to local custom) to the service and present beautiful sympathy floral arrangements of any type, whether it be sprays, tributes, or bouquets. Cards can be included to express written sentiments. Monetary contributions can also be given, however if they are destined for a Bahá’í fund, only Bahá’ís can contribute.

Another option is to present a beautifully arranged fruit basket to the bereaved.

The grave should be bordered with planted flowers and the cemetery itself be aesthetically beautiful.

The deceased is always buried and never cremated or embalmed.

This is a general overview of a Bahá’í funeral. It may differ according to local customs and the preferences of the bereaved.

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Buddhist funeral ceremonies are a standard in East Asian countries. The traditions and services at these funerals vary by culture. However, they do share some common traits.

The funeral service usually includes a wake. This may or may not take place at the home of the deceased. As per most Western style funerals, sympathy flowers are normally sent before the service in order for them to be displayed appropriately. What is appropriate in this context will depend more upon the deceased’s cultural background. Likewise, what are considered suitable sympathy arrangements from those attending the service will depend upon their connection to the deceased.

The sympathy flowers at a Buddhist service are normally white or of a light, pale colour. For example, the following are the kinds of flowers one would typically see at a Japanese Buddhist funeral: chrysanthemums, orchids, carnations and lilies. Chrysanthemums, in particular, are the most traditional and common type of sympathy flower.

The flowers are typically arranged as casket sprays, wreaths and tributes. The casket may or may not be open. Larger arrangements of standing sprays, wreaths and tributes are often sent from groups or companies with whom the deceased was well connected to.

After the wake, the deceased is then taken away for cremation. This is probably one of the most important moments during the funeral, aside from the wake. In some cases, this can take the form of a procession.

Greater variations by culture occur in terms of the mourning period itself. In some cases, the mourning is done for a number of days afterward. In others, it may be held on a specific day or days after the funeral and/or the anniversary of the funeral itself. You will likely need to inquire from others as to when the bereaved will be accepting sympathy flowers during this mourning period.