Which factor distinguishes a religious funeral from a non-religious funeral? (A) The use of candles in the ceremony (B) The celebration of the life of the deceased (C) The reference to a transcendent dimension (D) The inclusion of popular music in the ceremony - HSC - SSCE Studies of Religion - Question 15 - 2007 - Paper 1

A religious funeral typically emphasizes a connection to a higher power or spiritual existence. The reference to a transcendent dimension signifies beliefs in life after death, which plays a critical role in religious practices. In contrast, non-religious funerals often focus on celebrating the life of the deceased without invoking spiritual elements, making option C the distinguishing factor.