JOSEPH W. TKACH
PASTOR GENERAL

January 1988

Dear Friend:

Thank you for your recent inquiry about cremation and the proper disposition of one's remains.

Various cultures, ancient and modern, have practiced cremation, although biblical examples show the Hebrews who lived at the time of Christ favored burial without embalming (a simple burial compared to customs of today).

However, the Bible, taken as a whole, teaches that the mode of a person's burial is not of great importance. Jacob was embalmed, and the Bible states that he will sit with Abraham and Isaac in the Kingdom of God (Luke 13:28). Christ was not embalmed, but He was resurrected to become the firstborn of many brethren. Jonathan, son of Saul, was cremated. Others who were martyred received no burial. Some were torn asunder by wild beasts. They, too, are promised a place in the Kingdom.

Scripture shows that it was the custom of the Jews merely to wrap and bury those who died (John 19:40). Christ was buried according to that custom. Death, burial, and resurrection are likened to the process a seed undergoes when it is planted (John 12:24,25; I Cor. 15:35-37, 42-44). But, regardless of whether a person becomes dust or ashes, the Bible promises that he or she will be resurrected (Acts 24:15; Rev. 20:12-14).

You may wish to write for our booklet IS GOD TRYING TO SAVE THE WORLD NOW? It is free upon request.

We appreciate the opportunity to help you with your study of the Bible. It is our pleasure to serve you.

PERSONAL CORRESPONDENCE DEPARTMENT