Does the Bible talk about cremation?

TL;DR:

Since cremation is not expressly forbidden in Scripture, we can make decisions on behalf of our loved ones’ bodies with a clean conscience, knowing that our goal is to honor their bodies along with their lives.

what does the bible say?

Although teachings of the Bible and the early church regarding cremation are a bit vague, burial customs tended to reflect the worship of God in the context of cultural norms. While burial is exemplified throughout Scripture, it is not demanded. In fact, when King Saul and his sons’ deceased bodies were dishonorably treated by their enemies, “valiant men” retrieved their bodies and burned them so as to honor their lives (1 Samuel 31:8-13). David goes on to praise the actions of those men who took Saul and his sons’ bodies (2 Samuel 2:5-7). Additionally, during Old Testament times, to have no kind of burial, or to be devoured by wild animals were considered dishonorable (1 Kings 14:11; 2 Kings 9:30-36; Jeremiah 16:4). In the New Testament, the early church viewed burial as an expression of faith in Jesus' redemption of the physical body. However, burial was/is not scripturally mandated. If we are not sure how we should honor the body of a deceased person, we should pray to God for wisdom on the matter (James 1:5).

from the old testament

The only biblical instance of dead bodies being burned is in 1 Samuel 31:11-13. The bodies of Saul and his sons were burned out of respect (the Philistines had mutilated the bodies). The bones were then buried in honor.
To be refused burial was considered dishonorable (1 Kings 13:22).
As was the case with the evil Queen Jezebel, to be eaten by wild animals and not be buried was an especially dishonorable death (2 Kings 9:30-36).

from the new testament

First Corinthians 15:35-55 explains that our physical body is a mere seed, and God will raise for us an imperishable, glorious, spiritual body. As long as the intent is glorifying God, it doesn't matter if a body is buried or cremated.
Early Christians honored the bodies of the dead, showing them respect as "jars of clay" (2 Corinthians 4:7).
If we are not sure if we should cremate or bury a deceased body, we should ask God for wisdom on the matter: The apostle James wrote, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him” (1:5).

implications for today

Some Christians express concerns about cremation due to beliefs that burial better honors the body as God’s creation and reflects faith in bodily resurrection. Additionally, some view cremation as potentially disrespectful, associating it with pagan practices or dishonorable treatment of the deceased. In Judaism, cremation is viewed as abhorrent because it is reminiscent of how Jewish bodies were disposed of in the Holocaust. However, among the general populace, cremation is an accepted practice and has grown in popularity. The Scriptures teach that God made the body and that it was good (Genesis 1:31). For believers, the body is the home in which the Holy Spirit dwells (Romans 8:9). Our goal should be to honor bodies, even after souls have departed from them; this can be done through burial or cremation. As confirmed in 1 Corinthians 15:35-55, a physical body does not need to remain intact for resurrection to occur because the passage indicates that all the “dead in Christ” will be resurrected. When it comes to deciding whether our loved ones should be cremated or buried, we should do what is in alignment with our convictions. If we do not have peace about what option we should choose, we should seek God’s wisdom (James 1:5).

understand

The Bible does not explicitly prohibit cremation.
We should seek to honor the deceased whether we bury them or cremate them.
God can resurrect a cremated body.

reflect

How do you feel about the idea of cremation versus burial, and what influences your perspective?
How can reflecting on the resurrection of the body and God’s character shape your understanding of cremation and its implications for your faith?
What biblical factors should you consider when thinking about cremation or burial methods?

engage

Throughout history, numerous saints and Christians have been martyred by being burned at the stake, often for refusing to renounce their faith or adopt practices contrary to their beliefs. If cremation were an issue because of pagan rites, concerns for the resurrection, or because it does not honor God’s creation, what would that mean for those who honored God by giving up their lives in this way?
What are some biblical principles that can guide our decisions regarding the disposition of a loved one's body after death?
In what ways can we support and guide those who may struggle with the decision to cremate or bury their loved ones?