Introduction
Judaism is one of the world’s oldest religions and has many traditions, of which one of the most fundamental is the prohibition against cremation. Cremation is a practice that has been part of cultures of many other faiths and has been commonly used in the United States since the 1950’s. However, historically, the act of cremation has long been rejected by the Jewish faith because of its strong beliefs in the body being buried, essentially in its original form. This article will discuss why this practice is held in such high esteem by the Jewish faith, and the many reasons that cremation has been avoided throughout history.
Scriptural Significance
The Torah, or Hebrew Bible, explains that burying the dead is a very significant act of respect. The commandment of burying is found in the book of Genesis and is one of the most important religious mitzvot, a Hebrew word meaning commandment or good deed. The Torah states that burying the dead after death is required for all, regardless of religious affiliation, and is a way of honoring the deceased. Cremation, on the other hand, is viewed as dishonoring the dead by reducing their bodies to ash. This is seen as an insult to the deceased’s body and soul because both are unable to be properly remembered and honored.
Respect for the Body
The primary reason that Judaism avoids cremation is its inherent reverence for the human body. Judaism has long held that the body is the vehicle that goes through life bringing the soul closer to God. According to the teaching of Judaism, our physical body is the instrument that is used to take us through the spiritual journey of life, and this journey should be honored and respected. When a body is cremated, it is seen as a disrespectful way of ending the journey, and is therefore seen as extremely inappropriate.
Attachment to the Land of Israel
In addition to the respect for the physical body, the attachment to the soil of the land of Israel is also a crucial element in the Jewish prohibition of cremation. In Jewish culture, being buried in the land of Israel is seen as a sign of attachment and belonging to the land. This is evidenced throughout the Bible in stories of individuals returning to the land of Israel to be buried. Therefore, cremation is seen as a sign of disrespect towards the Land of Israel, and it is believed that the act of cremation will prevent the soul from returning to the land of Israel after death.
Respect for the Dead
Respecting the dead is a major Jewish value and cremation has been seen as a sign of being disrespectful to the deceased. Some Rabbis have argued that cremation is seen as a rejection of the justice system. According to the teachings of Judaism, the dead should be treated with the same respect and kindness that was expected of them in life. Cremation is seen as a way of denying the dead the respect and dignity that the deceased deserves.
Respect for Nature and the Environment
In addition to the respect for the dead and the attachment to the land of Israel, another element of the prohibition of cremation is its potential harm to the environment. The process itself is considered to be an act of destruction and pollution and therefore is seen as antithetical to Jewish beliefs and teachings. This can be seen in the many teachings and traditions that emphasize treating the environment with respect and care. Therefore, due to these and other beliefs, cremation is seen to be a harmful act and is completely prohibited in Jewish tradition.
Respect for the Custom and Practice of Others
Finally, in addition to the spiritual and environmental reasons, there is also a respect for the customs and practices of others that is also present in the prohibition of cremation. While it is true that some individuals throughout history have chosen to be cremated due to their own personal beliefs, Jewish tradition states that respect and tolerance of the beliefs of others is of utmost importance. Therefore, the prohibition of cremation is also a sign of respect for the customs and practices of other cultures and religions as well.
Respecting Personal Choice
At times, there can be exceptions to the prohibition of cremation, depending on the personal choice of the individual and their family members. Some Reform and Conservative Jews have chosen to allow cremation in certain cases, if the individual and their family have made an informed and conscious decision to do so. In all cases, however, cremation is still seen as a violation of Jewish law, and the practice should not be taken lightly.
Respect for the Earth and All Living Beings
Judaism also emphasizes respect for the earth and all living beings. It has long been held that all life, both human and animal, deserve to be cared for and treated with great respect. Judaism also reminds us of the importance of being mindful of our actions and how they affect the environment around us. Cremation, while convenient, goes against the teachings of Judaism in that it creates air pollution and neglects the important aspect of respecting the body after death.
Conclusion
It is clear to see why Judaism does not condone cremation as a practice. It is seen as a sign of disrespect to the body and soul, to the Land of Israel, and to the customs and beliefs of other cultures and religions. Respect for the dead, the earth, and all living beings are values that are of utmost importance in the Jewish faith, and as such, cremation should not be taken lightly. Ultimately, it is up to individuals and their families to decide whether or not cremation is the right choice for them, but any decision should be made with respect and the recognition of the importance of the Jewish values.
