Cremation

My brother passed away on July 13th of this year. Although we are Jewish and we don't believe in cremation, my brother wanted to be cremated and I respected his wishes. Is there a prayer for a cremation?

Shalom!

Thank you for your question.

As is clear from your question, you are well aware that cremation is absolutely forbidden according to Jewish law. In fact, it is a mitzva to ignore the wishes of someone who wishes to be cremated. It is one of the worst sins, as there is no way to regret or repent for allowing this sin to be performed on one’s body since the sin is carried out after one is dead.

Now I will share with you some of the other thoughts and procedures regarding cremation from our sages.

1. There is even a dispute whether cremated ashes may even be buried in a Jewish cemetery.  there are those that forbid it as those who allow themselves to be cremated are considered to be among those who have “thrown off the yoke of the mitzvot.” Le'halocha the law is that they have to be buried in a Jewish cemetery.

2. It is forbidden to be involved in the post-mortem care of such people. One does not do a tahara on a person destined to be cremated by choice.

3. Nevertheless, human remains always need burial. One reason is to ensure that no impurity is transmitted by the remains. If even bone the size of a barley seed remains, (which is very possible even with cremation) the remains transfer impurity. 

As such, there is no prayer for cremation or anything related to cremation.

If you haven't yet done the cremation then please contact  Home - End Cremation  you will realize the great eternal kindness you will be doing to your sister and her soul will be able to rest in peace.

• Chatam Sofer 341; Seridei Aish 2:95; Yoreh De’ah 348 and commentaries