WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY ABOUT CREMATION?
What Does the Bible Say About Cremation?
When it comes to the topic of cremation, many wonder if it's a practice that aligns with biblical teaching. While the Bible doesn’t directly address cremation, it provides principles and examples that can guide us in making a thoughtful decision.
What the Bible Says About Treating the Body
The Bible reminds us that our bodies are God’s creation and are to be treated with respect.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."
This means that, even after death, how we handle the body should reflect our belief in its value as part of God’s creation. However, this verse doesn’t tell us if burial or cremation is the only acceptable choice—it focuses more on the attitude of honor and reverence.
Was Burial the Biblical Norm?
Yes, burial was the most common practice in biblical times. Examples like Abraham burying Sarah (Genesis 23:19) or Jesus being laid in a tomb (John 19:40) show that burial was seen as a way to honor the deceased. It was also deeply tied to cultural traditions.
But it’s important to note that the Bible never commands burial as the only option, nor does it condemn cremation.
What About Cremation in the Bible?
There are mentions of burning bodies in Scripture, but they are often associated with judgment or unusual circumstances. For example:
1 Samuel 31:11-13: After King Saul and his sons were killed in battle, their bodies were retrieved and burned by the men of Jabesh-gilead. Later, their bones were buried with respect.
This shows that cremation, in this case, was practical, given the condition of the bodies, and it was followed by an honorable burial of the remains.
Does Cremation Affect the Resurrection?
This is a common concern, but the Bible reassures us that God’s power to resurrect is not limited by the condition of our physical bodies. Whether a body is buried, cremated, or has naturally decayed, God is sovereign over all creation.
1 Corinthians 15:42-44: "What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable... It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body."
Ezekiel 37:5-6: "Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live."
God’s promise of resurrection does not depend on the method of burial but on His power and faithfulness.
So, Is Cremation Biblical?
Since the Bible doesn’t command or forbid cremation, this becomes a matter of personal conviction. Christians are called to seek God’s wisdom in all things and make decisions that align with their faith and desire to honor Him.
Romans 14:5-6: "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind... Whatever you do, do it in honor of the Lord."
Ultimately, the choice between cremation and burial should reflect trust in God’s sovereignty and our hope in the resurrection.
A Final Thought
The most important takeaway isn’t about the method we choose but about the faith we have in God. Whether we are buried or cremated, the Bible assures us that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39) and that He will fulfill His promise to resurrect and renew all things.
