The deceased’s face is sometimes covered before the casket is closed to protect it from the inside lid of the casket. It may still be covered at the funeral as a gesture of comfort, out of respect for the body.
In the longer answer involves Greeks, ghosts, and Catholic bishops. The custom of shutting the eyes of the deceased is believed to have begun as an attempt to close a "window" from the living world to the spirit world. Covering the face with a sheet comes from pagan beliefs that the spirit of the deceased escaped through the mouth.
By placing a tissue or cloth over the face and hands, the chance of staining is eliminated. Generally speaking, a body takes 10 or 15 years to decompose to a skeleton. After 10 years teeth, bones, and maybe sinew or skin remain. With no coffin or embalming, a body in the ground takes eight to ten years to totally decompose.
The act of covering the face is a longstanding tradition across cultures and religions. While it may seem simple, there are reasons why it is done. From old rituals and superstitions to the preparation of the body by embalmers, covering the face honors the deceased and provides closure for loved ones. Before covering the face, family and friends may share final words, memories and moments of grief and joy. Doing this allows them to take part in honoring the deceased and provides a way to say goodbye. Covering the face is a sign of respect for the passed, and closing the casket symbolizes the end of their life. Seeing the covered face provides an emotional closure, as an open casket can be too painful.
- Generally speaking, a body takes:
- 10 or 15 years to decompose to a skeleton.
- After 10 years: teeth, bones, and maybe sinew or skin remain.
- With no coffin or embalming: 8 to 10 years to decompose completely.