For many Christians, the act of holding joss sticks (incense) at a funeral or when paying respects to ancestors may raise concerns about whether it contradicts their faith. Some may worry that it involves idol worship or participation in religious rites outside of Christianity. However, when understood in its proper context, offering incense can be seen as an act of respect rather than a religious compromise.
1. The Meaning of Holding Joss Sticks in Chinese Culture
In many Asian cultures, burning incense is a deeply rooted tradition symbolizing:
Respect and remembrance – Honoring ancestors and deceased loved ones.
Filial piety (孝) – A fundamental value in Chinese culture, showing gratitude to those who came before us.
A moment of reflection – Incense is often used as a way to pause, reflect, and offer well wishes for the deceased.
For many families, the act is not about worshiping spirits or deities but about demonstrating reverence and respect. In this sense, holding joss sticks at a funeral is comparable to laying flowers on a grave in Western cultures.
2. The Christian Perspective: Is It Worship?
A. The Bible and Respect for the Dead
Christianity teaches respect for parents and ancestors. The Bible says:
Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.”
Romans 13:7 – “Pay to all what is owed to them… respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.”
Holding joss sticks as a sign of respect for parents or ancestors does not automatically mean one is worshiping them. It can simply be a cultural expression of honor, much like lighting a candle in a church for the departed.
B. Biblical Use of Incense in Worship
The Bible itself acknowledges incense as a symbolic act. In the Old Testament, priests burned incense as part of their prayers and offerings to God (Exodus 30:34-38, Psalm 141:2). In Catholic and Orthodox Christian traditions, incense is still used during services to signify prayers rising to God.
The key issue is intention—if holding incense is meant to honor and remember the deceased rather than to worship them, it does not conflict with Christian teachings.
3. Participating in Family Rituals Without Compromising Faith
Many Christians worry that taking part in family traditions like burning incense means they are endorsing non-Christian beliefs. However, there are ways to participate respectfully while maintaining one’s faith:
1. Focus on the Act of Remembrance
Approach the gesture as a sign of respect for the deceased rather than an act of worship.
Use the moment for silent prayer, offering a blessing for their soul.
2. Clarify Your Intentions
If asked, Christians can explain that they are honoring their loved ones and expressing filial piety, not engaging in religious rites contrary to their faith.
3. Alternative Gestures
If a Christian feels uncomfortable holding incense, they can bow, offer flowers, or observe a moment of silence as alternative ways to show respect.
4. Jesus and Cultural Sensitivity
Christianity encourages believers to live in peace with others and respect cultural traditions where possible.
1 Corinthians 9:22 – “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
Romans 12:18 – “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”
By participating in family customs in a way that aligns with Christian faith, believers can show love and unity while upholding their values.
Conclusion: A Matter of Respect, Not Worship
Christians can hold joss sticks for their ancestors or at funerals as a gesture of respect and remembrance, as long as their intention is clear. It is not about worshiping spirits but about honoring those who have passed, much like lighting a candle in remembrance. If done with a proper understanding, this practice does not conflict with Christian teachings on respect for family, peace with others, and the honoring of parents.
Each individual Christian must decide based on their conscience, but ultimately, cultural expressions of respect can coexist with faith when approached with wisdom and sincerity.
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