Is praying for the departed ok?
Dear Guruka Ji,
I recently lost my beloved dog, Bella Rani. I raised her from a puppy and her passing has caused exquisite pain and prompted a lot of thought on the Sikh perspective of death and the afterlife. Its quite ironic that Bella's declining health prompted my first few ardaas's and I have since accepted Waheguru's will and have realised that there is more at play here..that Bella is not just my dog and that she is a soul on her own journey. I euthanised her recently to put her out of her misery and had an ethical dilemma about interfering in God's plan..but his wonderful hukumnama following an ardaas immediately after Bella's passing has given our family much comfort. It was:
Jin Thum Bhaejae Thinehi Bulaaeae Sukh Sehaj Saethee Ghar Aao The one who sent you, has now recalled you, return to your home in peace and pleasure
...It also contains: Jin Kae Jeea Thinai Hee Faerae Aaapae Bhaeiaa Sehaaee All beings belong to him, He himself transforms him, and he himself becomes their help and support
This hukumnama has made me accept that Bella is in a better place and that Waheguru will look after her ( how wonderful!). I have spoken to a few people on the afterlife in Sikhism and there are many views. What are your views on:
- Praying for the departed -I cannot stop loving Bella and I need to keep doing something for her and all I can do is pray. However, apparently this is maintaining an attachment and will stop the soul from continuing its journey. I do not understand how doing something that is essentially coming out of love ( not possession) can be bad for a departed soul? I worry that praying for her is an indication that I have not accepted God's will and it will annoy him.
2.Will I see her again? - I have heard people say that souls travel in clusters. Brian Weiss describes this in his book "Many Lives, Many Masters". What is the sikh view on this? I cannot imagine anything more heavenly than hanging out with Bella in Sachkand.
I really appreciate your view on this, I need answers to move on and am very thankful for this portal.
Thanks!
Regards, Jasveen (crazy dog lady)
