Cremation is when a non living body is reduced to ashes by burning in a crematory fire or crematorium furnace. The remains of the fire are often placed in urns where they are then buried, held at memorial sites, kept by loved ones, or sometimes hold wishes by the person that has passed on. A common wish is to be spread out over the Oceans or something similar. Being cremated is a very common act with other popular methods such as casket funerals.

Ancient evidence has placed cremation back to at least 26,000 years ago. It is likely common that the practice took place prior to this point in time but evidence would have likely been destroyed or lost. Throughout history different cultures have both embraced and prohibited the use of cremation.

Different religions and cultures often depict what one is able to request done with their remains. Depending on how strict someone follows their religion will set forth if the remains must be buried, kept, or spread at will. A common example of this is Roman Catholicism requires a follower to bury or entomb the remains which generally would require an urn to properly follow. Other religions and cultures have far more complex rules to follow so this should be an important step in your research based on your faith.

Economically speaking, cremation can also be far less expensive to be preformed that a traditional casket burial. Although it is commonly not the important topic at a funeral, the cost burden on those paying for it can be unaffordable at times. If a body is cremated without a coffin and the not buried it can save thousands of dollars if it was done otherwise. Urns to place the remains in can even be found right here on the internet at a great discount from prices held within funeral homes.

There is also many other reasons people choose cremation over a traditional burial. The ability to become incinerated and become one with the earth is commonly more appealing than decomposing slowly within a small casket. Environmentally speaking cremation is also better for the earth in many ways. The embalming fluids, caskets, and other means used in traditional burials contaminate the ground water and the ground itself. Pollution aside, common burials require a large amount of space which is becoming more scarce and expensive in largely populated areas. These are all things to consider when choosing a proper funeral.