CREMATION: A Burning Issue – Rabbi Michael Skobac – Jews for Judaism
Channel: Jews for Judaism
Date: 2018-01-22

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CREMATION: A Burning Issue with Rabbi Michael Skobac, Education Director of JEWS FOR JUDAISM, Canada

Over the past decades, cremation has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional burial, both in the world at large and among Jews. However, this option runs counter to both the letter and spirit of Torah law. This video will explore some of the major problems that Judaism has with cremation.

According to Jewish law, one should not "sit shiva" (observe Jewish mourning rites) for someone who was cremated voluntarily, nor is one obliged to bury their ashes. You will not be able to properly mourn for him/her, and no Kaddish will be said for him/her. This may have an impact. In addition, the body of a voluntarily cremated person is not liable for resurrection; this is not so much because of the physical impediment, but rather in line with the concept that one who doesn't believe in resurrection will not experience it.

Cremation declares that this world is the beginning and end of Man. A basis of Jewish faith is that this is not true. The body is held on deposit, and together with the soul, it really belongs to G-d. G-d decides when and where a person should die, and what should be done with the body once it has fulfilled its "this-worldly" purpose.

JEWS FOR JUDAISM is an international organization dedicated to countering the multi-million dollar efforts of Christian missionary groups that target Jews, the impact of cults and eastern religions, and the growing rate of intermarriage that is devastating the Jewish community.  JEWS FOR JUDAISM achieves its goal through FREE educational programs, materials and counseling services that connect Jewish people to the spiritual depth, beauty and wisdom of Judaism and keeps Jews Jewish.  Please contact us if we can help you. www.jewsforjudaism.ca