We know cremation is on the rise, and traditionally, Jews have avoided cremation – but that’s changing among the more liberal branches of Judaism.
For a quick look at the topic of Jews and cremation, check out this Mortality Minute video, brought to you by Waldman Funeral Care in Houston, Texas – “Extraordinary Service. Compassionate Care.”
The transcript of the video follows below.
This Jewish Mortality Minute is brought to you by Waldman Funeral Care: Extraordinary Service. Compassionate Care.
Hi, I’m Gail Rubin, The Doyenne of Death, with today’s Mortality Minute.
Traditionally, Jews avoid cremation. While Reform and some Conservative synagogues and rabbis allow cremation, the Orthodox do not.
Cremation did exist in biblical times, yet the patriarchs and matriarchs were all buried. Deuteronomy tells us God personally buried Moses.
Fire represents punishment – think of Sodom and Gomorrah and the sons of Aaron whose unauthorized offerings prompted their death by fire from God.
We bury sacred objects. When a torah, a prayer book or a prayer shawl is too worn for use, we bury, not burn them. Our bodies are the sacred vessels of our souls and deserve similar treatment.
Remember, talking about sex won’t make you pregnant; talking about funerals won’t make you dead. Start a conversation and have the Talk of a Lifetime with someone you know today.
This Mortality Minute was brought to you by Waldman Funeral Care: Extraordinary Service. Compassionate Care. To learn more, visit WaldmanFuneralCare.com.
Do you have a funeral home and want your own online Mortality Minute videos? Contact Gail Rubin at 505.265.7215 to discuss, or learn more at https://agoodgoodbye.com/radio-tv/mortality-minute/.