What does wake mean in Irish?
The term “wake” is often used interchangeably with “visitation” or “viewing,” but a modern-day wake allows each individual to mourn in the way that heals their own pain, and to do it in a setting surrounded by others that loved and mourn the deceased in their own way as well.
What is served at an Irish wake?
Tea and sandwiches are served during the wake visitation hours, and it’s not uncommon for whiskey to be poured into the evening. Sharing meals and drinks is a way to celebrate the life of the departed. It also brings some relief to those mourning.
How do the Irish mourn?
Each person is allowed to grieve by spending the last few minutes of the dead body. They either recite prayers or say goodbye for the last time. After that, they get out of the room and share a drink with the rest of visitors. That is how the celebration takes place.
How do you do a Irish wake?
To show respect for the deceased individual, clocks are stopped at the time of passing. Mirrors are covered or turned around so the soul can more easily enter into heaven. Flowers are placed on a deceased child’s body. A pipe may be placed on a deceased male’s body, along with pipes placed throughout the wake room.
Why do Irish cover mirrors after death?
The Irish wake is a well-known funeral tradition where the family of the deceased covers all mirrors in the home. To hide the physical body from the soul, the family turns mirrors to face the wall. They cover mirrors with black material to ease the deceased’s journey into the afterlife.
What is a Irish goodbye?
A slang phrase rumored to have originated in the Northeast, an “Irish goodbye” refers to a person ducking out of a party, social gathering or very bad date without bidding farewell. …
Why do you stop the clock when someone dies?
2- The belief that time has stopped for the person who has passed and you are allowing them to move on without rushing them. 3. -If the clock is kept going, you are inviting the deceased to stay in your time and not pass on. Thus inviting a spirit to stay.
Why do you leave a window open when someone dies?
It is believed that an open window in the same room as a death bed is needed to allow the souls of family members who have already died to come to retrieve the soul of the person who is dying, to take them into the next life.
What do you call an Irish lady?
[ ahy-rish-woom-uhn ] SHOW IPA. / ˈaɪ rɪʃˌwʊm ən / PHONETIC RESPELLING. noun, plural I·rish·wom·en. a woman born in Ireland or of Irish ancestry.
What do Irish call each other?
Mucker. Mate, pal, friend.