What Is the 13th Day Ceremony After Death Called?

By JayGuruDev

Published on:

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In Hindu tradition, the 13th day ceremony is one of the most important rituals performed for a deceased person. This ceremony is called Terahvin, Tehravi, or Shuddhi Karma in many Indian households. The introduction itself highlights that the 13th day ceremony marks the spiritual closure of the soul’s journey on earth and the beginning of peace for the departed.

This day holds deep emotional and cultural significance.


Meaning of the 13th Day Ceremony

The 13th day ceremony symbolizes the final goodbye to the departed soul. According to Hindu belief:

  • The soul stays close to the family for 13 days
  • It transitions to the next world after rituals
  • Family members perform prayers to give peace
  • The home and family are spiritually purified

It is a blend of grief, spirituality, faith, and emotional closure.


What Happens on the 13th Day?

1. Pind Daan Ritual

Priests perform Pind Daan using cooked rice, sesame seeds, and water. It is believed to nourish the soul during its journey.

2. Tarpan

Water offerings are made to ancestors, strengthening the bond between the living and the departed.

3. Brahmin Bhoj (Feeding Priests)

Feeding priests is considered an act of charity and purification.

4. Family Gathering

Relatives gather to express condolences, pray, and share memories.

5. Ashuddhi to Shuddhi (Purification)

The family is considered spiritually purified after 13 days.


Spiritual Purpose of the Ceremony

The 13th day ceremony is believed to:

  • Help the soul detach from worldly ties
  • Guide it toward Pitrulok (ancestral realm)
  • Provide emotional healing to the family
  • Complete the cycle of mourning

This ritual blends ancient beliefs with deep emotional comfort.


Real-Life Example

Imagine a family performing the Terahvin of a loved one.
There is sorrow, silence, and memories—but also prayers, mantras, diya, and offerings. This ceremony gives them the strength to accept the loss while wishing peace for the departed soul.

The atmosphere becomes peaceful, like the soul finally finding its way.


FAQs

What is the 13th day ceremony after death called?

It is called Terahvin, Tehravi, or the 13th day ceremony.

Why is the 13th day important?

It marks the soul’s final departure from the earthly realm.

Who performs the rituals?

The eldest son or a close family member performs the rites with a priest.

Is Pind Daan compulsory?

It is a traditional ritual believed to give peace to the soul.

What happens after the 13th day ceremony?

The mourning period ends, and normal life gradually resumes.

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JayGuruDev