In Hinduism, the signs of approaching death are deeply rooted in both mythology and spiritual texts. Death is seen as an inevitable part of the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara), and there are several mystical indicators, described in various scriptures, that are believed to foreshadow a person's imminent demise. Some of these signs, as recorded in the Shanti Parva of the Mahabharata and other Purāṇas like the Vayu Purana, Markandeya Purana, and Linga Purana, provide both symbolic and practical significance.
Classical Signs of Approaching Death
Inability to see celestial bodies: A person approaching death may not be able to see stars such as Arundhati (a symbol of conjugal fidelity in Hinduism), the Pole Star, or even the full moon. This could symbolically represent a disconnection from cosmic energies, as celestial bodies often symbolize spiritual light and guidance.
No reflection in another's eyes: Not seeing one's reflection in the pupil of another person’s eye is another sign. This reflects the idea of losing one’s life essence or soul, which is often mirrored in others while one is alive and vibrant.
A distorted view of the moon: Seeing the moon with a hole or blemish is considered a bad omen. The moon in Hinduism is linked to emotions and the mind (Chandra), and this vision may symbolize mental disturbance or spiritual disorientation.
Smelling a corpse-like odor: The ability to perceive the foul smell of death, even in the presence of perfumes and fragrant substances, reflects heightened sensitivity to the soul’s departure from the body.
Loss of bodily heat: A gradual loss of warmth in the body, especially in key areas like the head and heart, is traditionally seen as a sign of death nearing.
Oozing from the left eye: Sudden moisture from the left eye is seen as another indicator. Left-sided phenomena in Hindu traditions are often considered inauspicious (the left being associated with things that are not right, both literally and figuratively).
No auditory perception: Not hearing the typical humming sound when ears are closed with fingers is indicative of the body losing touch with sensory input and life energies.
Visual blackout: When a person cannot perceive light, even when the eyes are closed and pressed, it is believed that the inner life force is fading, reducing the connection to external reality.
Dreams of symbols of death: Dreaming of death-related imagery, such as an ass or a trishula (trident), is thought to foreshadow one's end. The trident is associated with Shiva, the god of destruction, and symbolizes the destruction of the physical body.
Importance and Symbolism
In traditional Hindu thought, these signs serve as spiritual indicators. Hinduism views death not as an end but as a transition to the next stage of life—whether that be reincarnation or moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). By observing these death omens, family members and communities could prepare spiritually, mentally, and ritually for the passing of a loved one.
The symbolism of these signs can be seen as manifestations of life's fading vitality, the soul’s gradual detachment from the physical realm, and the diminishing influence of material reality. Celestial bodies, reflections, sounds, and sensory perceptions in Hindu cosmology are all tied to deeper spiritual truths. As such, their disruption is a clue that the individual is moving toward a different state of existence.
Practicality in Modern Times
In modern times, belief in these traditional death signs persists, especially in India and among devout families. However, with the advancement of medical science, people now rely more on medical signs such as loss of pulse, brain death, or terminal illness to predict death. Yet, in many places, these spiritual and cultural indicators are still given respect and can be found blended with rituals surrounding death, such as:
- Last rites and rituals (Antyeshti): The knowledge that death is approaching allows for important death rituals, including giving Ganga water to the dying, chanting mantras, and preparing the person spiritually for their next journey.
- Astrological consultations: In some Hindu families, death signs are also connected with astrological predictions. A bad planetary alignment or troubling dreams may prompt a family to prepare for the worst.
Similar Practices in Other Cultures
Ancient Egyptian Death Signs: The Egyptians believed in many omens around death. Sudden changes in health, dreams, or behavior were often interpreted as signs of death, similarly linking spiritual and celestial factors to life and death.
Medieval Europe: In medieval times, much like in Hinduism, people believed in supernatural omens of death, such as the appearance of certain birds (like crows or owls), or shadows that did not follow the natural light.
Chinese Traditions: In traditional Chinese culture, physical signs like a cold nose, sudden forgetfulness, or a cat jumping over a body were believed to indicate death.
Lesser Known Facts
Dream Symbolism: In Hinduism, dreaming of specific animals, such as owls, lizards, or reptiles, could also be seen as omens of death. Snakes, especially cobras, are symbols of both fertility and destruction.
Practical Guidance: In older texts like the Garuda Purana, practical guidance is given on how to handle death and prepare the body, including washing the body in specific ways, wrapping it, and chanting certain mantras during cremation.
Pre-death Fasting (Prayopavesa): In ancient Hindu traditions, when a person felt that death was near and all worldly duties were completed, they might voluntarily abstain from food and water in a practice called Prayopavesa, leading to a peaceful and intentional death.
Symbolism in the Modern Day
Today, many Hindus still uphold the symbolism of death as a spiritual event rather than merely a biological one. For the devout, these ancient signs serve as reminders of the impermanence of life and the importance of preparing for the next stage of spiritual evolution. The rituals and beliefs surrounding death in Hinduism promote a detached view of mortality, reinforcing the idea that life continues beyond death, and therefore, one should live righteously to ensure a better next life or spiritual liberation.
In essence, while modern medical and scientific views may have influenced how death is approached today, the symbolic meaning and spiritual foresight provided by ancient death signs continue to offer comfort and meaning to many Hindus as they navigate the transition from life to death.