a. Is RIP an appropriate expression for a departed Hindu?

Rest in Peace (RIP) is an Abrahamic concept, as per which the body waits or rests in a grave.  On Judgement Day, the body gets united with the soul and rises again. God will make judgement for who will go to heaven or eternal hell. 

Hindus believe in reincarnation of the departed soul to a new body and soul does not rest. Hindus have a concept that if the soul is trapped inside the earth, then it’s called as a Preta (a disturbed soul and in suffering). Suffering in Hell is better as it’s temporary, but not getting trapped here. Thus to tell RIP is a disrespect to the departed Hindu.

“Param Gati Mile” (may the soul attain moksha), “Om Sadagati” and “Om Shanti” are appropriate expressions when a Hindu passes away. 

Other reading material: Here is why saying ‘Rest in Peace’ is a disservice to the departed Hindu soul,

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Contributor: Dilip Amin