What is cremation?
Cremation is a method that disposes of the body as an alternative to burying the body. The body is placed in a cremation container and incinerated (burned) in an industrial furnace called a cremation chamber into chemical compounds – gases, ashes, and mineral fragments, which are called cremains1.
Does Islam allow the cremation of a deceased Muslim?
Cremation is not allowed in Islam.
Similar to the way Muslims are instructed to treat the living, respect and dignity must also be extended to the deceased. Narrated Aisha (R), Ummul Mu’minin:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: Breaking a dead man’s bone is like breaking it when he is alive.2
It is a requirement that the Muslim community ensures that a Muslim’s burial procedure is conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth in Islam. Cremating a body would fall in direct opposition to these guidelines, and should be avoided.
Are there any cases where there would be an exception to the rule?
Generally speaking, if there is a serious risk of death on the part of those conducting the burial rituals, and there is no path to mitigate risk, then it is best to consult local scholars on the best course of action. Sanctity of life is a paramount Islamic maxim, and exceptions to other guidelines can be made if this and other pillars of Islamic jurisprudence may be violated. As such, consultation with experts in Islamic jurisprudence in conjunction with other experts (e.g., medical professionals) who have knowledge related to the extreme circumstances being faced is strongly recommended.
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