Why We Close the Eyes of the Deceased: Beyond the Superstitions

Introduction

The act of closing the eyes of a deceased person is one of the most common and universally understood rituals in funeral customs. It is so ubiquitous that many might assume it has deep religious or spiritual significance. However, the primary reason behind this practice is more grounded in human psychology and our natural reactions to death. In this article, we will explore the reasons why we close the eyes of the dead, and delve into the fascinating blend of superstitions, symbolism, and emotional considerations.

Psychological and Emotional Reasons

From a psychological standpoint, the most compelling reason for closing the eyes of the deceased is to reduce the unsettling sensation of looking at lifeless eyes. It's a natural human reaction to feel more at ease when a body appears to be "asleep" rather than staring directly at the living. This ritualizes the transition from life to death, making it appear more natural and comforting.

Death can be a deeply unsettling experience, and the gaze of a dead person can be particularly eerie. The eyes of a corpse can give the impression that the person is still present, even if we know rationally that they are not. For many, the open eyes of a corpse can trigger feelings of distress or fear. Closing the eyes turns the corpse into a more passive and restful state, akin to sleep, which aligns with our cultural understanding of final repose.

Superstitious and Cultural Reasons

Throughout history, many cultures have wrapped or covered the eyes of the dead for various superstitious reasons. One common belief is that the open eyes can cause the soul to drift back to the living, leading to haunting or other paranormal activities. To prevent this, the eyes are closed, sealing the eyes and the soul within the body, and ensuring the deceased remains in their final resting place.

In some historical contexts, coins were placed over the eyes as a payment for the ferryman to the afterlife, symbolizing the deceased's journey into the unknown. This practice, although steeped in superstition, reflects a desire to perform a symbolic act of reverence and farewell.

Ceremonial Importance

Closing the eyes of the deceased is also a part of the larger funeral ceremony and the emotional ritual of saying goodbye. It serves as a small honor and a private moment of closure for the family and medical personnel involved. For doctors and nurses, who often have to declare a patient's death, this ritual can provide a sense of humanity and dignity in an otherwise traumatic event. It allows for a moment of privacy and emotional release, providing a sense of comfort to the family and a sense of fulfillment to the caregivers.

Practical Considerations

From a practical perspective, closing the eyes can prevent the eyes from opening due to Rigor Mortis or the natural contraction of eyelid muscles after death. Dead skin also tends to shrink, causing the eyelids to pull back open. To prevent this, a weight or a special device, such as a metal eye cap, is placed over the eyes to close them permanently. This prevents the eyes from staring blankly into nothingness, which can be unsettling even to those who are familiar with death.

For example, a photograph of a dead body with open eyes can appear more unsettling than one with closed eyes. Even in the presence of death, the act of closing the eyes provides a small sense of normalcy and closure. It helps to complete the image of the person as they were in life, reducing the sense of disconnection that comes with the finality of death.

Conclusion

The act of closing the eyes of the deceased is a multifaceted practice that encompasses psychological comfort, cultural superstitions, and emotional symbolism. While the desire to close the eyes may be rooted in the inherent discomfort of looking at a lifeless gaze, it also carries important cultural and spiritual meanings. By understanding the reasons behind this common ritual, we can better appreciate the significance of this act in the context of loss and mourning.