Hindus believe in reincarnation, which means that when someone dies, their soul is reborn as a different form. This cycle of birth and death is known as samsara, and the soul experiences the results of its karma, which determines the length of each life and the specific form of each rebirth. The ultimate goal is to attain moksha, or liberation from samsara, resulting in complete spiritual existence.
The condition of ones consciousness at the moment of death is considered very important in determining the state of the next life. Therefore, it is traditional for Hindus to die at home, where they can be more easily surrounded by family and friends who can help create a spiritual atmosphere conducive to helping the soul depart the body.
Upon death, Hindus are not buried, but cremated according to an established procedure as detailed in the scriptures. This is based on the belief that a jiva (being) is made up of five elements of Prakriti (nature) which need to be returned to their source upon its death. Funeral rites are considered a sacrament, just as the birth of an individual, and are rightly compared to a sacrifice and termed as the last rite (antyesti) .
In general, Hindu beliefs about death are centered around the soul and its journey through samsara, with the ultimate goal of attaining moksha.
