Ashes to Ashes: Unpacking the Divine Debate on Cremation Across Cultures

When making end of life plans, understanding the views on the acceptance of cremation in various faiths can be helpful as you navigate your disposition choices. In the United States, cremation has now become the preferred choice for the majority of people. In many religions, views have often shifted over time along with the popular opinion. 

While cremation is widely accepted now in the United States, there are some religions that prohibit the practice and prefer burial or traditional funeral services.  

Others see cremation services as acceptable but have specific guidelines to be followed, for example, where ashes may be interred. 

Below are general views we found on the acceptance of cremation by some religions. We recommend you consult with a religious official in order to gain a deeper understanding of the traditions within a faith as there can be a range of beliefs and opinions. 

It is also important to balance your beliefs with respect for your loved one’s wishes and be mindful of your budget when considering costs of cremation and funerals. 

Atheism

Atheists do not have religious criteria for disposition. 

Anglican/Episcopalian

Cremation is accepted by Episcopalian faith, according to the Episcopal Church glossary. 

Baptist 

Baptists view cremation as acceptable. The cremation can take place before or after a funeral service or memorial. However, viewings are customary for the Baptist faith. 

Buddhism

In Buddhism, death is seen as a transition from one form to another. Cremation is a traditional practice in Buddhism, and communities will hold services led by monks. It is not uncommon for families to witness the cremation of their loved one. 

Catholicism

Cremation is more recently accepted in Catholic religion. But, the Catholic Church prefers that cremations take place after the Funeral Mass. However, in 2016 the Vatican announced that remains should not be scattered, but should instead be kept in a “sacred place,” like a cemetery. 

Eastern Orthodox

Cremation is prohibited. It is seen as a “departure from the belief in resurrection,” according to Orthodox Church in America. 

Hinduism

Cremation is traditionally preferred in Hinduism with the body remaining at home until it is cremated. Cremation usually takes place within 24 hours after death. 

Islam

Muslims prohibit cremation and prefer burial. “We have the understanding that there is heaven and hell. And hell is a fiery place and that’s the place we do not want to go to,”Dr. Shabir Ally said on AboutIslam about why cremation has not been adopted. “We don’t want anything to do with fire, you know, touching this human person.” 

Jehovah’s Witness

Cremation is accepted. “The Scriptures do not present any basic objection to the practice of cremation,” according to the Jehovah’s Witness website. “Jehovah does not have to reassemble a person’s former body in order to resurrect him.” 

Judaism 

Perspectives differ on cremation for the range of beliefs held by Conservative, Orthodox and Reform branches. People who practice Orthodox Judaism do not accept cremation as a method of disposition. They believe the body should remain in the ground. People practicing Reform Judaism have become more accepting of cremation and it is becoming more common. 

Lutheran

According to the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, there is no official position on cremation. 

Methodist

Cremation was not always viewed positively in Christianity, but now it is becoming more acceptable with the Methodist Church. “However, more and more people are coming to agree with the view that, since cremation only does rapidly what nature will do much more slowly, cremation is acceptable,” the United Methodist Church website states. 

Mormon

Cremation is not viewed as prohibited or encouraged. “Generally, Latter-day Saints in the Western world have felt that nothing should be done which is destructive to the body,” Roger R. Keller, associate professor of Church history and doctrine at Brigham Young University writes for the Latter-day Saints website. That should be left to nature. Church leaders have counseled that only in unusual circumstances or where required by law should cremation take place.”

Presbyterian

People practicing Presbyterian faith have typically buried their loved ones and often do not support cremation. However, like many other religions, the practice is becoming more common and accepted. 

Quaker

Quakers have no religious criteria for disposition. Cremation and burial are both accepted. 

As you research the religious beliefs around cremation, remember two things. First, opinions are evolving and changing as cremation’s popularity continues to grow. Also, many religions may hold a wide range of viewpoints depending on their relationship to their leadership, larger faith and their interpretation of their foundational texts. A local faith leader can help you navigate the variety of views.

Afterall providers are experts and planning funerals that conform to your religious and cultural traditions. Search for a nearby location if you are looking for help with funeral arrangements.

To learn about how different religions view funerals, take a look at our article Exploring Religious Funeral Customs: From Catholic to Islamic Practices.