There is no permanent “soul,” but a continuum of consciousness flows from one life to the next.

Cremation reflects the truth of impermanence—nothing lasts, not even the body.

After death, consciousness enters the bardo, an in-between state before rebirth.

Prayers and chants help guide this journey.

🔥 Fire is seen as a natural, respectful way to honor change.

3. Sikhism: Returning to the Five Elements

The body is made of earth, water, fire, air, and ether. In death, it returns to these.

Cremation is standard practice.

The soul journeys back toward Waheguru (the Divine).

Hymns from the Guru Granth Sahib are recited to comfort the living and guide the departed.

💡 Sikhs believe the soul is unaffected by fire—only the physical form is released.

4. Christianity: Resurrection of the Soul

“To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8

Historically, burial was preferred, based on belief in bodily resurrection.

But today, most Christian denominations—including Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox—accept cremation.

The Vatican affirms: Cremation does not prevent God from raising the body at resurrection.

The soul is believed to go to God immediately after death.

❤️ Many Christians now see cremation as a valid choice—especially when ashes are treated with reverence, often buried or placed in a sacred space.

5. Islam: Burial as Sacred Duty

The body is a trust from God.

Cremation is forbidden in Islam.

Prompt burial (within 24 hours) is required, facing Mecca.

The body is washed, wrapped in simple cloth, and laid to rest.

The soul enters Barzakh—a state of waiting—until the Day of Judgment.

🕌 Fire is seen as a violation of the body’s dignity. Respect means returning it to the earth, as nature intended.

6. Judaism: Honor in Burial

Burial is a mitzvah—a sacred commandment.

Traditional and Orthodox Judaism prohibit cremation, viewing it as a desecration of the body.

The soul (neshamah) begins a 12-month transition, during which prayers (like Kaddish) are said.

Reform and Reconstructionist Jews may accept cremation, though burial remains deeply meaningful.

💧 Water, earth, time—these are the elements of Jewish mourning. Fire is not part of the tradition.