Cremation of orthodox saints is forbidden by Traditional Jewish Law. However, Hinduism strongly recommends it. Some faiths, including Lutherans and Methodists, believe in a spiritual resurrection. You may be surprised to learn that there are no orthodox churches that practice cremation.
Table of Contents
Traditional Jewish law prohibits orthodox saints from being cremated
Cremation is forbidden in the Jewish faith, according to many sects. Jewish law prohibits defiling the body after death and spells out certain procedures for the deceased’s burial. In addition, Jews believe that the soul does not leave the body immediately upon death, but gradually departs through the process of decomposition. As such, the act of cremation defiles the body and may be a source of pain to the soul.
This taboo is reinforced by the horrific Holocaust, which forced millions of Jews to be buried alive. Fortunately, most modern Jewish cemeteries allow the cremated remains to be buried in a Jewish cemetery, although many of these cemeteries require that the ashes be buried in a coffin.
Hinduism strongly recommends cremation
Hindus have traditionally chosen cremation over burial for the dead, although this practice is not required for children. Saints and holy men are considered to have attained holiness and purity through their bodies, and are therefore exempted from the practice. The final disposition of children is up to their family, and their religious beliefs may play a role in their decision.
Hinduism, along with other religions, strongly discourages the practice of interment. In fact, it does not permit the interment of human remains, and many religious leaders have prohibited it. However, in 1963, the Roman Catholic Church lifted its ban on cremation, and Catholic priests can now officiate cremation ceremonies. Although the Church still prefers interment, cremation is allowed in a respectful manner as long as the deceased is not cremated out of physical disbelief in the resurrection.
Lutherans
Cremation is a tradition that is widely accepted in many religions. However, some religions do not allow it. For example, Catholics do not allow it before the funeral Mass. Likewise, Eastern Orthodox do not allow cremation because it violates the belief in the resurrection of the dead. However, Hindus and Lutherans do not oppose cremation. In most cases, cremation is performed at home, and usually takes place within 24 hours of death.
While cremation is an acceptable method for Protestants, it is considered an unholy practice for Orthodox Christians. According to the Catholic Church, cremation violates the body’s role as a temple for the Holy Spirit and the sacraments. Additionally, cremation violates the idea that the body is an active part of life, a medium through which a person can interact with others.
Methodists believe in spiritual resurrection
Methodists believe in a spiritual resurrection. The bible offers glimpses of heaven, but it is hard to imagine what it will look like. Methodists, however, believe that there will be angels and a community of people who will worship God forever. They also believe that God will heal people.
Methodists also believe in the sanctity of the human body. They encourage the use of spiritual disciplines, such as chastity, to preserve the holiness of one’s body. They also promote the practice of living sacrifices, spiritual worship, and the renewal of one’s mind.
Protestants
Protestants and Catholics have very different views on cremation. Protestants are more liberal when it comes to the process, while Catholics are more conservative. In the case of the former, cremation is an option for those who don’t have any objections to the method.
Cremation is prohibited in the Orthodox Church for many reasons. Most notably, it violates the chrismation ceremony, which occurs at the start of a person’s life. However, the Orthodox Church has permitted cremation when the body is destroyed in a natural disaster.
