The Sin of Cremation: What Does the Bible Say?

Cremation has become a common practice in many cultures and religions, but for Christians, a frequent question is whether it is considered a sin. The Bible does not directly address cremation, though it does describe the handling of bodies after death. Historically, burial was the standard among the Israelites. Abraham purchased a tomb for Sarah (Genesis 23:19), and Joseph’s body was returned from Egypt to Canaan for burial (Joshua 24:32).

Burning bodies appears in a few passages as a form of punishment or dishonor (Joshua 7:25, 1 Samuel 31:12), but these references do not provide a clear prohibition against cremation.

Theological and Modern Views

Theologians note that because the Bible does not forbid cremation, the choice is largely personal or cultural. Christian teaching affirms the resurrection of the body (1 Corinthians 15:42-44), but also emphasizes God’s power to raise the body regardless of how it is treated.