Cremation is becoming more common today for reasons like cost and simplicity. Still, many believers ask: Is it sinful? Does it dishonor God or affect life after death? To answer, we must look at sacred teachings rather than culture or opinion.
In Scripture, burial is consistently shown as the normal practice. Abraham buried Sarah, Jacob was buried in his homeland, Moses was buried by God’s will, and Jesus was placed in a tomb. Burial reflected respect and humility. Importantly, Scripture never presents cremation as a recommended practice. References to burning bodies are rare and usually connected to emergencies, war, or judgment—not standard funeral customs.
Sacred teachings emphasize that the human body has value. It is described as “A trust,” “A responsibility,” and “A sign of God’s creation.” Because of this, many believers see burial as the most respectful return to the earth. While cremation is not directly forbidden—Scripture does not say, “Cremation is forbidden”—it also does not reflect the same pattern of reverence shown in burial traditions.
Some fear cremation could affect resurrection. Scripture makes clear that “God is not limited by physical form.” Resurrection depends on divine power, not physical remains. People who died in fires, floods, or wars are not beyond God’s reach. Life after death is in His hands alone.
Sacred teachings also stress that God judges intentions. Choosing cremation out of necessity is not the same as choosing it carelessly. Sincerity matters. Respect matters. Humility matters.
In the end, funeral customs do not decide destiny. Faith, character, and obedience do. The body returns to the earth. The soul returns to its Creator. And every person will stand before Him with nothing but their deeds.