Which decision do you make first?

 

The soul (Atman) is eternal and indestructible.

Cremation is preferred because it quickly frees the soul from the body.

The soul begins its journey to rebirth or Moksha (liberation).

Fire is sacred—it purifies and guides the soul to the next dimension.

“The soul does not perish when the body is destroyed.”

— Bhagavad Gita 2:20

2. Buddhism: A Transition, Not an End

There is no permanent “soul,” but rather a continuous stream of consciousness.

Cremation supports the idea of ​​impermanence—liberation from attachment.

Consciousness enters an intermediate state (Bardo) before rebirth.

For this reason, cremation is common in many Buddhist cultures.

3. Sikhism: Return to the Elements

The body returns to the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether).

The soul, which resided in the body, continues its journey toward union with the divine.

Cremation is a common practice, accompanied by prayers for the salvation of the soul.

4. Christianity: Resurrection of the Soul
Cremation was traditionally the preferred form of burial but is now widespread.

It is believed that after death, the soul goes to God, not the body. Many believe in spiritual resurrection, not physical rebirth.

The Vatican states: “Cremation does not harm the soul and does not prevent God from resurrecting the body.” 5. Islam: Burial is Obligatory
In Islam, cremation is forbidden—burial is the only accepted form of interment.

The body is considered the property of God and should be treated with dignity.

The soul remains conscious after death and awaits resurrection.

Cremation is considered a desecration, not a spiritual choice.

6. Judaism: Burial in the ground is sacred.

Orthodox Judaism forbids cremation—burial in the ground is a mitzvah (commandment).

The soul (neshama) begins a twelve-month transition period after death.

Cremation is seen as a denial of the resurrection of the body.

Reform Judaism is more tolerant but prefers burial in the ground.

7. Spiritual, but not religious: The soul continues.

Many believe the soul is pure energy or pure consciousness.

It is not bound to the physical body—fire cannot harm it.

Cremation is seen as a symbolic liberation, not an event. Spiritually: The soul can “go into the light,” reunite with loved ones, or return to the universal source.

💭 What do dying people say?

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