There are tons of burials happening at cemeteries in Charlotte, NC and cremations at crematoriums happening all the time, just as there are tons of different religions co-existing in the area at the same time. The religion and cremation vs. burial debate is not a new one, as some belief systems have been encouraging or discouraging cremation for centuries.

For many, the choice between burial and cremation is a religious one, as some religions accept cremation, while others do not. Since there are so many belief systems in Charlotte, NC, here is a short list of what some common religions say about cremation and burial:

1. Christianity – Cremation is fully accepted in Christianity. There are even verses in the Bible that seem to encourage the practice. Take, for example, Genesis 3:19, “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food until you return to the ground, since from it you were taken; for dust you are and to dust you will return.” However, there are some Christians that cite biblical examples in support of traditional burial, such as Christ being buried, or various Old Testament burials. All in all, when it comes to Christianity and burial, it really depends on what the individual prefers.
2. Judaism – The Jewish faith does not allow cremations, as per scripture in the Torah. However, some more modern Jewish families do choose cremation if it coincides with their personal beliefs.
3. Hinduism – The Hindu religion pretty much mandates cremation. Hindus believe that fire is a purifying agent that can help release the deceased’s spirit from its physical body so it can move on to a spiritual dimension. Hinduism also calls for a memorial service after the cremation to keep memories of the deceased alive.
4. Spiritism – Spiritism, or Reincarnation, is a kind of belief system that promotes the idea that all humans carry immortal spirits that will go to another host after death. Cremation is also widely accepted in Spiritism. However, believers do require a certain period of time between the death and the cremation as they believe that the spirit can sometimes remain with the body for a time after death.

At the end of the day, no matter what you believe, the only important thing is that the deceased is treated with respect and remembered fondly by those that loved him or her. There are tons of options for you to honor and remember your lost loved one, be it through traditional burial at a cemetery or a cremation. You are sure to find the right solution for you, your family, and your beliefs in Charlotte.

Gethsemane Cemetery and Memorial Garden is a Charlotte, NC cemetery that offers compassionate, expert, and considerate services. We have experience working with people from all kinds of religious beliefs and backgrounds and would be happy to do what we can for you in your time of loss. Please stop by and visit us or give us a call to learn more about what we can do for you and your lost loved one.