Cremation has been a part of human history for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. Historically, cremation was seen to honor the dead and ensure their passage into the afterlife. However, in recent years, cremation has seen a surge in popularity and is now chosen by most people in the United States as a final disposition. This increase in popularity is not just due to its historical and cultural significance but also because of practical and personal reasons. In this blog post, we will explore the history of cremation, modern cremation services North Miami Beach, FL, and why more and more people are choosing cremation to honor their loved ones.
History of Cremation
Cremation is a method of disposing of a deceased person’s remains by burning them to ash. It has been used by various cultures throughout history. However, the origins of the practice are difficult to pinpoint. In ancient times, cremation was commonly used in Europe and the Near East. The ancient Greeks, for example, practiced cremation, as did the Romans. In the early days of cremation, the deceased ashes were often placed in urns and buried.
In India and Nepal, cremation has been a traditional and religious practice for thousands of years. The Hindu religion has long believed in cremation to release the soul from the body. The modern cremation process was developed in the late 19th century. In 1873, the first crematorium was built in England. By the early 20th century, cremation had become an accepted alternative to traditional burial in many parts of Europe and North America.
Modern Cremation Services
Modern cremation services are provided by funeral homes or crematories. It involves a process in which a deceased person’s body is exposed to intense heat, usually between 1400 to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit, in a specially designed furnace called a cremation chamber or retort. This process typically takes 2 to 3 hours to complete and reduces the body to ashes, also known as cremated remains or cremains.
The remains are then placed in an urn and returned to the family. Some funeral homes and crematories offer additional services such as witness cremation, where the family or friends can be present during the cremation process. Before cremation occurs, some legal formalities need to be completed, like the death certificate, permit for cremation, and authorizations. Some religious groups may have specific guidelines or rules regarding cremation, which should be considered.
Families have multiple options for the final disposition of the cremated remains. Some choose to bury the urn in a cemetery, while others prefer to keep the urn at home or scatter the ashes in a special place. Some families also choose to divide the ashes among family members. Cremation has become more popular in recent years, as it is often less expensive than a traditional burial. It offers greater flexibility in terms of memorialization. It reduces the amount of land used for burials and can be more environmentally friendly.
Create a Lifetime Memorial
We hope this blog post has provided you with a better understanding of the history and evolution of cremation, the different cremation services available, and why more people are choosing cremation. Remember, end-of-life planning is a personal and often challenging decision. Being informed and aware of your options, you can make a decision that aligns with your beliefs, values, and wishes. If you have any questions or require more information about cremation services North Miami Beach, FL, please feel free to reach out to us.
