Should I Be Buried or Cremated?

Death is a topic most of us tend to avoid; nevertheless, it is an inevitable fact of life for all of us. If you or someone in the family passes away, it’s best to decide beforehand what happens to the body. South Africa consists of a diverse range of religions and many different cultural practices. Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists tend to opt for cremation; however, in the Orthodox Jewish and Muslim religions it is forbidden. Christians may choose either burial or cremation. So, should I be Buried or Cremated?

Buried or Cremated, What happens in a cremation?

The body goes to a very high heat for approximately one to two hours; the time frame depends on the weight and size of the deceased. The process happens at a place known as a crematorium inside a type of furnace, which is known as the cremation chamber.

How do the remains look?

The cremated remains look a little like sharp sand and are an opaque white colour. The remains of an average-sized adult will weigh approximately 1.5 to 2kg.

How do you organise a cremation?

The best and easiest way to hold a cremation is to enlist the help of a funeral director. Therefore, it’s wise to call in a professional. The next of kin or executor of the will must sign an application form in front of a commissioner of oath. The funeral director will also help with the memorial or funeral arrangements.

Should I be buried or cremated? Which is more expensive?

Cremations are a lot cheaper than funerals. Graves tend to cost a lot more; however, you will pay the same amount for the services of the funeral director regardless of what you choose. Significantly, if you choose cremation, you don’t have to pay for a headstone or incur the on-going cost of caring for the gravesite.

Do you have to purchase an urn?

You are not legally required to have an urn; however, it is a good idea if you are having a memorial service or funeral. There is a modern trend to create a keepsake to keep the remains of loved ones close by. The remains can go into beautiful urns made out of wood, ceramics, and glass or into jewellery, stained-glass windows and teddy bears.

What can I do with the cremated remains?

You can choose to bury the remains in a cemetery or place them on a wall of remembrance. Some churches provide gardens for plaques; you can also keep the remains in a columbarium, at home, or scatter them in a place memorable to the deceased.

 

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All info was correct at time of publishing