November’s Resources - Dying Consciously
Peace Sangha,
Here are the resources for this month. You will find excerpts from the book Transitioning in Grace, which is inspired by Tushti's story on dying consciously. From Tushti’s experience, there were sharings on practices like Sky Burial, how a Zen monk attains Mahasamadhi, and the fascinating concept of cryonic freezing, which we all wanted to share with you, offering a unique perspective on the mystery of dying consciously, death and beyond. Interestingly, the very next day, I learned that my friend, who was a Zen Monk, Alan Smith, passed away on 10th October 2024.
Also, I was reflecting on my guru, Paramhansa Yogananda's whose body showed no signs of decay even after 21 days.
Sky Burial
Sky burial is a sacred and ancient Tibetan Buddhist funeral practice in which the deceased's body is respectfully dismembered and placed on a mountaintop, allowing scavenging birds, particularly vultures, to consume it. This ritual symbolises the natural cycle of life, death, and rebirth, with the birds honoured as "angels of the sky" who carry the soul to the heavens.
Beyond its spiritual significance, the practice embodies a beautiful act of generosity and compassion, offering the body as nourishment to other living beings. It reflects a deep reverence for nature and the interconnectedness of all life, honouring the belief that death is not an end but a transformation within the endless flow of existence.
The next Transitioning in Grace will take place on Saturday 27th December at 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm.
Please send me an email or message to confirm your attendance.
Blessings & Love
Rev Dinah Pemberton
