Funeral Where You Burn The Body

Howard Cosell

2 min read

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30-12-2024

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Cremation, the practice of reducing a deceased person's body to ashes through burning, is a funeral tradition with ancient roots and increasing popularity. While burial remains a common choice, cremation offers a distinct alternative, appealing to those seeking a simpler, more environmentally conscious, or culturally aligned final farewell.

The Process of Cremation

The process itself is relatively straightforward. Following a period of viewing or visitation (if desired), the body is prepared for cremation. This may involve washing and dressing the deceased. Then, the body is placed in a cremation container, often a simple cardboard casket, and moved to the crematory.

Inside the crematory, a high-temperature furnace, known as a retort, reduces the body to bone fragments. These fragments are then processed, usually by a machine that pulverizes them into a fine powder, which is referred to as cremains or ashes.

Options Following Cremation

Following cremation, families have several options regarding the cremains. These can include:

• Urn Burial: The cremains are placed in an urn, a container specifically designed to hold ashes, and buried in a cemetery or placed in a mausoleum.
• Scattering: The cremains can be scattered in a location that was significant to the deceased or their family, such as a favorite park, a body of water, or a designated scattering garden. Note that regulations regarding scattering vary by location and permission may be required.
• Keepsake Urns: Smaller urns, often containing only a portion of the cremains, can be kept by family members as cherished mementos.
• Memorial Jewelry: Cremains can be incorporated into jewelry pieces, allowing loved ones to keep a small portion of the ashes close.
• Reef Balls: In some areas, cremains are incorporated into artificial reef structures, providing a unique and environmentally friendly final resting place.

Cremation vs. Burial: Key Differences

While both cremation and burial serve the purpose of laying a loved one to rest, they offer distinct advantages and disadvantages:

Cremation:

• Cost: Generally less expensive than traditional burial.
• Space: More environmentally friendly, requiring less land.
• Flexibility: Offers more options for handling the remains.
• Tradition: Growing in popularity and accepted in many cultures.

Burial:

• Tradition: A long-standing and widely practiced tradition in many cultures.
• Visually Tangible: Provides a physical place of remembrance and visitation.
• Religious Beliefs: Aligned with the beliefs of some religious traditions.
• Cost: Can be significantly more expensive than cremation, especially with elaborate caskets and burial plots.

Ultimately, the choice between cremation and burial is a personal one, dependent on individual preferences, religious or cultural beliefs, and practical considerations. It is crucial for families to carefully consider their options and make an informed decision that reflects the wishes of the deceased and provides comfort to those left behind.