Definition of the word grass over

The phrase "grass over" refers to a burial ritual where the deceased is laid to rest with grass and vegetation covering the burial site. This tradition has existed in several cultures throughout history. The term "grass over" itself is an English translation of the Gaelic phrase "air na mbeannaithe", which translates literally to "on the growths" or "upon the vegetation". The Gaelic phrase is commonly used in Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man to describe this burial custom, where it is still practiced in some traditional burial grounds today. The practice of burying the dead with grass and vegetation is rooted in traditional beliefs and customs that vary by culture. In some cases, grass is believed to help preserve the body due to its insulating properties, aiding in the decomposition process while preventing the body from becoming too exposed to the elements. Other cultural beliefs hold that grasses and vegetation will help provide nourishment for the deceased in the afterlife. Regardless of the specific belief, the custom emphasizes a connection between the dead and the natural world, reminding communities that death, while a natural part of the cycle of life, does not have to be a separation from the earth or the community as a whole. Instead, it reflected a reverence for the natural world, reflecting the belief that death, like birth, is a natural part of the cycle of life that should be respected and honoured. In recent times, as burial customs have changed significantly, the practice of "grass over" has become less common in many places, but it still holds meaning for those who continue to value and practice it as part of their cultural heritage.