Name one common practice associated with death in Indigenous cultures.

The use of smudging or cleansing rituals is a common practice associated with death in Indigenous cultures because it plays a crucial role in spiritual cleansing and the honoring of the deceased. Smudging involves burning sacred herbs such as sage, sweetgrass, or cedar to create smoke that is believed to carry prayers and intentions. This ritual is often performed as a means of purifying the space and the individuals involved, creating a respectful and sacred environment to mourn and celebrate the life of the person who has passed away.

Indigenous cultures often view death not just as an end but as a transition to another stage of existence. The act of smudging helps to facilitate this transition, allowing both the spirit of the deceased and the emotional well-being of the living to be nurtured. It also reflects the deep connection these cultures maintain with their spiritual beliefs and the natural world.

Other practices surrounding death, such as acknowledging the role of medicine or participating in public speeches, may occur in various contexts but do not carry the same spiritual significance or universality found in the practice of smudging across many Indigenous cultures.