When someone dies, the corpse is kept for 7 days before cremation, a period of time in which prayer over the body is observed. Six of the seven days visits are made by monks, engaging in evening prayer by the body. Immediately after death family members engage in a ceremonial hand cleansing, each taking turn to pour water from a jug over the hands of others. At the service, an older monk may be present, but not to help conduct the service. This is a sign of a high rank in Thai culture. The coffin is adorned with light garlands, flowers, and a picture of the deceased. After prayer, the corpse is burned to release the spirit, which continues onto the next stage of the after life.