Soka funeral services in Singapore offer a dignified and spiritually focused alternative to traditional Buddhist ceremonies, aligning with the practices of Soka Gakkai International (SGI). These services emphasize simplicity, meditation, and the chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, aiming to support the deceased's journey toward enlightenment and provide solace to the bereaved.

Here's a step-by-step guide to understanding and arranging a Soka funeral service:

Step 1: Understand What a Soka Funeral Is

• A Soka funeral follows Nichiren Buddhism practices, often by Soka Gakkai International (SGI) members.

• Emphasis is on chanting Nam-myoho-renge-kyo and meditation rather than elaborate rituals.

• The focus is on spiritual connection, remembrance, and support for the bereaved.

Step 2: Decide on the Type of Funeral
There are different service packages depending on your needs and budget:

• Memorial Funeral - Direct cremation, basic setup.

• Comprehensive Soka Funeral - full ceremony with chanting sessions, altar setup, and family participation.

• Tailored Packages - Customized services focusing on SGI traditions.

Step 3: Choose a Venue

• Soka funerals can be held in:

  • HDB void decks (common for smaller gatherings)

  • Funeral Parlours

  • Private Halls if preferred

Step 4: Prepare the Setup

• Simple Altar with: 

  • Framed portrait of the deceased

  • Flowers and candles

  • PA system for chanting sessions

• Family may share personal reflections, but formal speeches are optional.

Step 5: Conduct the Ceremony

• SGI leaders guide the ceremony.

• Key elements:

  • Chanting of Nam-myoho-renge-kyo

  • Meditation and silent reflection

• Duration: typically 3-5 days, depending on the package chosen.

Step 6: Plan for Cremation or Burial

• Choose cremation or burial.

• Some SGI members may use SGI-operated columbarium (eg. An-Le Memorial Hall at Senja Soka Centre).

Step 7: Contact Funeral Directors or Service Providers for the Arrangements

Step 8: Support for Family & Bereaved

• Soka funerals aim to provide emotional and spiritual support to family members.

• Encourages reflection, chanting together, and peaceful remembrance.

Role of a Funeral Director at a Soka Funeral

Before 1991, the Soka Gakkai was still considered a lay Buddhist movement within the Nichiren Shōshū branch of Buddhism; it is thus a relatively new religious movement. Furthermore, with Soka (meaning Value Creation in Chinese) teachings focused more on guiding practitioners towards maximising their full potential in life, living a worthy life and being a useful contributing member of society, funerals and death become less of an emphasis than living the current life well. Hence, not much is written about Soka Funeral ceremonies on new media platforms such as the Internet.

While the Singapore Soka Association will be able to offer advise to members on funeral matters, having a Funeral Director experienced in handling Soka Funerals close by to guide and offer advice to the deceased family is useful as well.