What unique item was included in the Chinese funeral procession?

In traditional Chinese funeral processions, a live chicken is sometimes used as a symbolic offering. The purpose of dragging a live chicken by a string during the procession is to appease spirits and invoke blessings for the deceased. This ritual reflects the deep-rooted beliefs in ancestor worship and the significance of animal sacrifice in some Chinese cultural practices. The chicken, often associated with vitality and the ability to ward off evil, underscores the connection between the living and the deceased, as well as the desire for a favorable afterlife.

In contrast, the other items mentioned—such as a live goat, a bouquet of flowers, and a decorated cart—may not carry the same symbolic weight in the context of Chinese funerals. While flowers can be present in funerary rites in various cultures, they are often more associated with Western traditions than with traditional Chinese practices. The live goat and decorated cart do not typically hold significant roles in this specific cultural context, making the live chicken the correct choice.