Practical and Spiritual Actions on Visits to the Dying [1] Posted 2 Dec 2018
Introduction
Visiting a person who is very sick or dying can be very beneficial and a wonderful thing to do. But before the visit, it is not unusual to feel a little apprehensive or unsure of yourself. That’s why spending a few quiet minutes deliberately preparing yourself is so important. If that is not possible and the only time you have is driving there, then in the car try to say an appropriate prayer or recite a relevant mantra, such as the mantra of the Medicine Buddha (Tayata Om Bhekandze Bhekandze Maha Bhekandze Bhekandze Soha) or Shakyamuni Buddha (Tayata Om Mune Mune Maha Muniye Soha).
This article is in four sections: preparing for the visit, building trust, helpful practical and spiritual actions, and what to do close to the time of death.
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[1] Compiled by Wheel of Life Palliative Care Support Group in 2013: Hayagriva Buddhist Centre, 64 Banksia Terrace, Kensington WA 6151. Edited by Len Warren in November 2018, for The Pure Land of the Indestructible Buddha
