Guides
Does Jewish Tradition Allow Cremation?
Jewish tradition calls for burial, and the movements differ on cremation. Here is what tradition teaches and how we help every family, without judgment.
Reviewed by Joyce E. Torchinsky, funeral director.
The Short Answer
- Traditional Jewish law calls for burial and does not permit cremation.
- Reform Judaism encourages burial but recognizes that some Reform Jews choose cremation.
- After a cremation, Kaddish is still said for the person who died.
- Your rabbi can guide your family’s decision.
Why Burial is the Jewish Tradition
Traditional sources give several reasons for burial over cremation. Genesis says, ‘For dust you are, and to dust you shall return,’ and the Torah commands burial. The body of the deceased is seen as holy, on loan from its Creator, and burial reflects belief in the resurrection of the dead.
For this reason, a traditional Jewish burial also uses a plain wooden coffin and no embalming, so the deceased returns to the earth naturally. Learn about kosher caskets and Jewish funeral and mourning traditions.
How Jewish Movements Differ
Traditional and Orthodox Practice
Traditional Jewish law does not permit cremation. In this view, many mourning laws are not observed after a cremation the person chose, though Kaddish is still said and charity in their memory is encouraged. These rules do not apply to someone cremated against their will.
Reform Judaism
Reform Judaism describes cremation as generally contrary to Jewish tradition and encourages earth burial whenever possible, while recognizing that some Reform Jews choose cremation. Some Reform rabbis do not officiate at memorials after a cremation.
Practice also varies within each movement. Ask your rabbi what your community follows.
If a Loved One Was Cremated
Your family can still mourn and remember.
1
Talk with Your Rabbi
Your rabbi can guide which customs your family observes and how to honor the person who died.
2
Say Kaddish
Kaddish is still said for the person who died, and charity in their memory is encouraged. Find the text of the Mourner’s Kaddish.
3
Hold a Memorial
A memorial service lets family and friends gather to share memories and say goodbye together. Memorial services
If Your Parent Asked to Be Cremated
This can be one of the hardest conversations a family has. Talk with your rabbi, and call us. We will listen and help you think it through, without judgment.
Reviewed by Joyce E. Torchinsky
Joyce E. Torchinsky is the owner and the funeral director of Torchinsky Hebrew Funeral Home, with more than 30 years in funeral service. She taught mortuary science and directed the Mortuary Science Program at CCBC Catonsville. She reviews our guides so that this sensitive topic is explained accurately and respectfully. Every family’s practice differs, so follow your rabbi’s guidance where it differs from ours. Joyce E.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cremation
Traditional Jewish law calls for burial and does not permit cremation. Reform Judaism encourages burial but recognizes that some Reform Jews choose cremation. Your rabbi can guide your family.
It depends on the cemetery and its rules. Some accept cremated remains and some do not. Ask the cemetery directly, or call us and we will help you find out.
Yes. Kaddish is said for the person who died, and giving charity in their memory is encouraged.
Talk with your rabbi about your family’s situation. We are here to listen and help you think it through.
Related Pages
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