Why Is the Head Always to the Left in a Casket?

Many people see a casket at a viewing and notice one thing. The head is on the left side when we face the casket. This small detail has deep roots. It also helps familys feel calm in a hard time.

Old Traditons and Customes

Long ago, many groups set bodies in the same way. Some faiths teach that the body faces the rising sun. This shows new life. To follow this rule, the head sits on the left.
Some cutlures keep this setup for hunderds of years. Funerl homes still use it today. Even with modrn eqpmnt, the setup stays the same.

Helps the Famly See the Face

When people come to say goodbye, they want to see the face. Most vistors stand on the right side. This makes it easy to look at the face when the head is on the left.
FDs (funeral dirs.), FHs (funeral homes), and embalm techs know this layout well. It keeps the space calm and safe.

Makes Work in the Funeral Home Easier

Staff in FHs and CEMS work in small rooms. The left-head layout fits the tools and tables in most prep rooms.
This way, tools stay close. Lifts, caskt trays, and PPE racks line up with the left side. It helps the team set the body well.

Symbol of Respect

Placing the head to the left shows honor. Many ppl feel that the heart side faces them. It gives a soft and warm feeling.
Families say it feels right. It offers a sense of care, even in a painful moment.

A Small Detail With Deep Meaning

The left-head position may look small. Still, it comes from a mix of old rules, faith views, and FH practice.
It helps the famly, it helps the staff, and it keeps a line of respect.
So when we see a casket with the head on the left, we see histroy, care, and a little peace.