History of the Parsis : including their manners, customs, religion and present position : with coloured and other illustrations : in two volumes

cHaP. 1V.] REMEMBERING THE DEAD. 213

as possible, in order that the memory of the dead may be revered, and that the living may be able to pray for their dead relatives in an earnest, quiet, and composed frame of mind.

Fruit and flowers are essential in most of the Parsi ceremonies for either the dead or the living. The practice of performing ceremonies and saying prayers for the dead is much insisted upon among the Parsis. It is also affirmed in Pehlevi books that the souls of the dead are extremely gratified and pleased in heaven at seeing that the dear ones on this earth have not forgotten them, and that their memory is preserved in the minds of their relations. To the living also the ceremonies are a matter of consolation, inasmuch as they constantly recall to them those to whom they were joined by worldly ties of love and affection. They also haye the effect of bringing before us our transient life, and the unseen world to which we are all hastening, and where many of those near and dear to us and for whom we pray have gone before.

During the days we have referred to, the living engage in prayer to Almighty God, especially in reciting the “patet,” or prayer of repentance, beseeching Him to forgive their past sins, and soliciting His guidance and support in the paths of piety and virtue in the year to come.