If you’re wondering what the Bible says about keeping the ashes of a loved one, here’s a quick answer: The Bible doesn’t specifically address the practice of keeping ashes, as cremation was not common in biblical times. However, it’s essential to approach this topic with sensitivity and respect for God’s view on honoring the deceased. Let’s dive deeper into this matter.
What Does the Bible Say About Keeping Ashes of a Loved One?
In the Bible, we find that people often buried their deceased loved ones, like Abraham did for his wife Sarah. Cremation, as we know it today, wasn’t a common practice in the biblical era. While the Bible doesn’t explicitly mention the preservation of ashes, it does emphasize the importance of treating the deceased with respect and honor.
Honoring the Deceased
The Bible teaches us to honor our parents and loved ones (Exodus 20:12). It’s essential to remember that how we handle the remains of our loved ones should reflect this honor. Whether through burial or another method, our intentions should be to honor their memory.
Cremation and Christianity
While the Bible doesn’t condemn cremation, some Christians believe that burial is a more traditional and respectful way to handle the deceased. It’s crucial to recognize that cremation isn’t a sin in itself. What matters most is the reverence and respect with which it is carried out.
New Testament Perspective
In the New Testament, the emphasis is on the resurrection of the dead and eternal life with Jesus. This belief can provide comfort to those grieving the loss of a loved one, regardless of how their remains are handled.
Bible Verses About Honoring the Deceased
- Exodus 20:12 – “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.”
- Genesis 23:19 – “Afterward Abraham buried his wife Sarah in the cave of the field of Machpelah east of Mamre (Hebron) in the land of Canaan.”
- 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 – “So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable.”
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – “But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope.”
- John 11:25-26 – “Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.'”
- Ecclesiastes 12:7 – “And the dust returns to the earth as it was, and the spirit returns to God who gave it.”
- Psalm 34:18 – “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”
- Revelation 21:4 – “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”
Remember, while the Bible provides guidance on honoring the deceased, the specific method of handling their remains is a personal choice.