The Concept of Preparing for Death Among Buddhists During the Time of the Buddha

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the preparation for death of Buddhists during the Buddha's time. The study is based on Tripitaka documents. The results of the study found that death is a normal part of all living beings. Since death cannot be avoided, preparing for death is very important for humans. In Buddhism, there are examples of people who effectively prepared for death, such as the Buddha who planned 3 months in advance by specifying the practice after his death and planning the affairs of the Sangha in full. In the case of Sariputta, Ananda, Mahapajapati Theri, and Anathapindika, they meticulously planned their deaths so that they would not be a burden to those who lived after them. Furthermore, the study found that people who were well prepared for death were all noble ones. Therefore, they were mindful and did not lose their minds when they died.