Participants in the funeral arrive at the home of the deceased. The cruce or cross has the name of the deaceased, the dates of birth and death, the initials INRI (Iesvs Nazarenvs Rex Ivdaeorvm, or Jeses of Nazareth, King of the Jews), and a ştergar, or piece of fabric that symbolizes a major change in status, in this case, between life and death.

 

The doorway of the room with the body lying in wait is covered with a flag, or doilu, with the initials of the deceased and a cross. Next to the doilu is a cup of water meant for the soul of the deceased and a ştergar. The ştergar has pagan origins and is a Romanian tradition, rather than a strictly religious symbol, but is used widely in funerals, baptisms and weddings. These items will stay here for 40 days so the soul of the deceased, lingering in the area, can come and drink water.

 

A portrait of the deceased and his widow is just inside the room where the body is lying. There is also a glass of water and a plate with bread and sarmale, a traditional Romanian food, which is given as alms, or pomană, for the soul of the deceased.

 

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