Question: I am curious about cremation. Is there anything mentioned in the Bible, or perhaps anything you may know about regarding this issue, it’s origin?

Thanks!

Sheri

Answer: Dear Sheri,

There is nothing in the Bible that specifically forbids cremation – most pastors perform memorial services when the departed loved one has been cremated. The Bible does give a pattern of burial. Of course, our Lord and Savior was buried in a tomb.

Some believe cremation is wrong by implication – that it gives way to unbiblical teachings such as reincarnation – and does not affirm the resurrection of the body. Further, some note that the Bible teaches the sanctity of the body – which it does. But we cannot dogmatically conclude that cremation is against God’s will – for whether we are buried or cremated, the body will return to dust.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht