Meaning
守灵 refers to the traditional practice of keeping watch over a deceased person's body before burial or cremation. Family members and close friends stay near the coffin, often throughout the night, as a sign of respect and to accompany the departed. This is a significant ritual in Chinese funeral customs.
Usage
This is a formal, culturally specific term used in the context of funerals and mourning. It typically describes the period between death and burial when relatives take turns staying with the body. The practice can last one to several nights depending on regional customs and family traditions.
Examples
- 01家人轮流守灵，没有让逝者独自一人。, .Family members took turns keeping vigil, not letting the deceased be alone.
- 02按照传统习俗，子女要为父母守灵三天。, .According to traditional customs, children should keep vigil for their parents for three days.
Characters
Measure words
- 次守了三次灵
- 夜守了两夜灵
Common collocations
- 守灵夜vigil night
- 轮流守灵to take turns keeping vigil
- 彻夜守灵to keep vigil all night
Origin
The word combines 守 (to guard/watch) with 灵 (spirit/soul, also referring to the coffin containing the deceased), literally meaning 'to watch over the spirit.' This practice has deep roots in Confucian filial piety traditions.