Listener Guide: Cremation vs. Burial for Christians
Dr. Randy White
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Introduction
Decision on cremation or burial involves financial, personal, and religious considerations.
The debate touches on fundamental beliefs about life, death, and the afterlife.
No single "right" way; varies by individual beliefs and interpretations of religious teachings.
Christian Burial Practices
Rooted in Jewish tradition, which favors burial.
Early Christians viewed cremation as pagan and inappropriate.
Roman persecutions sometimes included burning Christian martyrs, seen as an insult.
Medieval practice of burning "heretics" to destroy the soul; notable example: John Wycliffe.
Historically, burial has been the primary practice.
Popular Myths
1. Book of Common Prayer:
"Ashes to ashes, dust to dust" references Genesis 18:27, emphasizing life's vanity, not cremation.
No historical evidence linking the nursery rhyme to the plague or cremation.
Phrase "ashes to ashes" likely whimsical, not related to cremation.
History of Cremation
More common in non-Christian religions (Hinduism, Buddhism).
Islam mandates burial, sharing the Abrahamic faiths' respect for the body.
Began in the 1870s due to public health concerns and urbanization.
Secular individuals and organizations promoted it.
Early proponents like Sir Henry Thompson, who founded the Cremation Society of England.
Dr. Julius LeMoyne advocated and built the first US crematorium.
Baron de Palm was the first to be cremated in the US in 1876, promoting the practice.
Legal and legislative challenges delayed widespread adoption.
Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF) and other fraternal organizations promoted cremation.
Their efforts made cremation more acceptable in society.
Religious Objections
Belief in physical resurrection required an intact body.
Burial viewed as respectful; cremation seen as violent and destructive.
Burial practices often referenced Matthew 24:27, positioning bodies with feet to the east.
What Should You Do?
Many Christians now see cremation as acceptable, trusting in God's omnipotence.
Decision should respect the body's inherent value and honor the deceased.
Personal choice, rooted in tradition, belief, and respect for loved ones.
Preference for burial as a testament to Judeo-Christian values.
Respect for others' choices, recognizing shared commitment to faith regardless of method chosen.
