Understanding Cremation

History is a popular way to deal with a loved one’s body and give them peace. If you are considering cremation services in Laureldale, PA, it’s a good idea to make yourself familiar with the history of it and why people choose to cremate their loved ones. Here are some things to keep in mind when trying to decide if it is the right option for you.

History Of Cremation

The practice of cremation, or the disposal of a deceased person’s body through burning, has been around for thousands of years and has been practiced by various cultures throughout history. Archaeological evidence suggests that cremation was practiced as early as the Stone Age, around 3000 BCE, in places like Europe and Asia. Cremation was also a common practice in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was seen as a way to honor the dead and release their spirit from their earthly body. In some cultures, including Hinduism and Buddhism, cremation is still the preferred method of body disposal. In Western societies, the practice of cremation became more widespread in the 19th century and has since become an increasingly popular choice for many people. Today, cremation is a widely accepted and practiced method of body disposal in many parts of the world.

Which Religious Use Cremation

Cremation is the traditional method of disposal of the dead in Hinduism. The ashes are then typically scattered in a sacred body of water, such as the Ganges River. While most Christian denominations permit cremation, there are some that prefer burial. The Catholic Church allows cremation but with certain guidelines, such as that the ashes must be buried in a cemetery or other sacred location. Cremation is generally not permitted in Islam, although there are some exceptions in cases of necessity, such as during a pandemic. Traditionally, burial is preferred over cremation in Judaism, although some liberal Jewish movements allow for cremation.

Why Choose Cremation?

Cremation requires less space than traditional burial, which can be particularly important in urban areas where cemetery space is limited. It is often less expensive than traditional burial because it eliminates the need for embalming, caskets, and burial plots. It also provides more flexibility in terms of memorialization options, including scattering the ashes, interring them in a columbarium or urn garden, or keeping them in an urn at home. Cremation has a lower environmental impact than traditional burial because it does not involve the use of embalming fluids, concrete vaults, or metal caskets. Additionally, some cremation providers offer eco-friendly options, such as using biodegradable urns.

It is important to note that some people may have religious or cultural objections to cremation, and it is always important to respect these beliefs and traditions. Additionally, while cremation can offer many advantages, it is ultimately a personal decision that should be based on individual beliefs, preferences, and circumstances. If you need help planning cremation services in Laureldale, PA be sure to reach out to us for some help. We are here to help you make your arrangements.