What Does the Bible Say about Cremation?

One of the most frequently asked questions about Christianity is whether cremation is allowed by the Bible. For centuries, various religious ideologies have had varied opinions about this matter, and the Bible is no different. In this article, we will explore some of the main points the Bible makes about cremation and what it means for the Christian believer.

The Old Testament’s View on Cremation

The Old Testament makes several references to cremation as both a form of punishment and reverence of the dead. It was an accepted practice of the community, though not without its controversies. In Deuteronomy 28, we read, “If you defy me, I will bring terror on you and your family—sudden destruction. For the Lord will swiftly execute his judgment…you will be burned up with fire, your corpse consumed by the flames.”

In this passage, it is made clear that cremation was seen as an acceptable form of punishment, implying that it was a common practice during this time. Additionally, in the story of Saul and Jonathan, Saul commanded that his son’s body be burned to honor them (2 Samuel 21:14). This story is often used to show that cremation was allowed and even respected within ancient Israelite culture.

The New Testament’s View on Cremation

In the New Testament, the practice of cremation is mentioned on a few occasions. In the book of Acts, we see that the followers of Jesus were “being burned alive” in Rome during Nero’s reign. It is believed that this was used as a form of punishment, a fact further supported by other stories of martyrdom in the Bible.

Although the Bible does not explicitly discuss cremation as a form of burying the dead, some scholars argue that it could be inferred from Jesus’ words in Luke 12:4-5, “I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell.”

This passage is often cited as a reference to the afterlife, and the idea of cremation fitting into this view makes sense. While the Bible does not state explicitly that cremation is allowed, some may infer from this passage that it is an accepted form of honoring the deceased.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can see that the Bible does not explicitly prohibit cremation, and in fact, it may imply that it is an acceptable practice. Despite this, different Christian denominations have adopted different views on the matter and it is ultimately up to the individual to decide which practices they will allow. For those seeking to honor a loved one’s memory and beliefs, cremation appears to be a viable option.