Burial 

In biblical times, burial was the common practice for disposing of the dead. The body was wrapped in linen cloths, sometimes with spices and perfumes to slow decomposition before being placed in tombs, caves, or laid in the ground (2 Chron 16:14; Jn 19:40). Mourning periods followed, often lasting seven days (Gen 50:10; Job 2:11–13).

In modern times, both burial and cremation ( the process of reducing the body to ashes through intense heat) are widely practiced among Christians. Cultural, financial, and environmental factors often influence the decision. Cremation has become increasingly common due to lower costs and land conservation concerns, especially in urban areas.

While traditional burial aligns more closely with biblical examples, the Bible does not command one method over the other. What matters most is the believer’s hope in the resurrection of the body (1 Cor 15:42–44). God, who formed humanity from dust, is fully able to raise the dead—whether ashes are scattered, buried, or the body has decayed naturally (Job 19:26; Isa 26:19). 

Some Christians choose cremation but request that ashes be buried rather than kept at home or scattered, as a sign of reverence for the body and anticipation of resurrection. Others prefer burial as a tangible expression of hope in the bodily resurrection.

Regardless of the method, the Christian funeral should point to the gospel—Christ’s victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

The New Testament presents baptism as a powerful symbol of burial and resurrection. Romans 6:4 states: “We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

Immersion in water vividly portrays the believer’s identification with Christ—dying to sin, being buried with Him, and rising to walk in newness of life. This spiritual reality transcends the physical method of bodily disposition.

Reflection and Application:

• Consider how the symbolism of burial and resurrection in baptism reflects your own spiritual journey—dying to sin and rising to new life in Christ.
• Reflect on the hope of resurrection: regardless of how a body is laid to rest, God’s power to raise the dead remains absolute and sure.
• Honour the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19–20), recognizing that both burial and cremation are permissible, but our ultimate hope lies not in the body’s preservation, but in its resurrection.
• In making end-of-life decisions, seek wisdom through prayer, consider your family’s needs, and let your choices reflect faith in Christ’s promised return.

See also: baptism (water), death, resurrection, eternal life.