What Religions Allow Cremations?

July 16, 2018

If you would like to have your loved one cremated, or you would appreciate that disposition yourself someday, you want to know if your (or their) religion allows it.

Cremation in Chicago, IL is on the rise both here and all over the U.S. as well as overseas and there are many reasons for that. While it is often a more economical choice that comes with a lot more options, there are also religious shifts that help its popularity. Not every religion has come around to cremation, but many more allow it now than they did in the past. Here are some of the major religions in the world and their thoughts on cremation to help you figure out what you need to do for your loved one’s beliefs.

Catholicism

The Catholic Church is a more recent convert to cremation. As recently as just 50 years ago, they were not okay with it. The church still isn’t completely enmeshed with the idea, but they do allow for people to have cremation services in Melrose Park, IL and other portions of the country if that is what they choose. The Church generally wants the deceased’s boy to attend the funeral, even if that requires it to be remains and not the actual body in a casket.

Buddhism

Buddhists allow cremation to take place after a loved one passes on, but the family of that person should be in the crematorium performing a chant during the cremation process. Once the cremation is complete, the remains are kept be family members or scatters in certain locations.

Hinduism

The Hindu religion has been in favor of cremation or years and they even prefer it over traditional burials. There are exceptions to the norm, however, and they do not cremate children, babies, or anyone they consider to be a saint.

Judaism

There are many sects under the Jewish religion and they all have their own beliefs on cremation. Reform Jewish individuals, for example, are okay with cremation and are holding it at lot more frequently. However, Orthodox and Conservative Jews are still against cremation and that isn’t likely to change any time soon. Jewish individuals who are cremated will want to have a rabbi at their memorial service if at all possible in most cases.

Islam

Muslims do not endorse cremation of any kind or under any circumstance. You cannot do a cremation service under the Islamic faith at this point and that doesn’t seem to be likely to change in upcoming years.

While more and more religions include cremation as an option today, not everyone is okay with it. If your loved one was part of a certain faith, it’s important to understand that faith’s stance on cremation so you can do what your loved one would have wanted. If you have questions as to whether or not a certain faith allows cremation, ask the experts at Chicagoland Cremation Options. We’re here not only to help take care of your Chicago, IL cremation options, but also to help you make informed decisions about those options in the first place. Call us at (773) 631-0018 or stop by 9329 Byron St. Schiller Park, IL 60176 for help from caring individuals who have the details you need.

cremation service in LaGrange, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options June 15, 2026
Families may delay a memorial after cremation for grief, schedules, or planning needs. Understand the reasons and what can help create a meaningful service.
cremation service in Glenview IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options June 8, 2026
A clear overview of the cremation process, from initial arrangements to final return, with practical details for families in Glenview, IL.
cremation services in Evanston, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options June 1, 2026
Understand the key documents required for cremation arrangements, including authorizations, identity records, and permits, for a smoother process.
cremation service in LaGrange, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options May 25, 2026
Clear cremation basics for first time families, from timing and paperwork to service choices, costs, and planning with confidence and care.
cremation service in Glenview, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options May 18, 2026
A practical cremation planning checklist for families handling next steps, paperwork, timing, service choices, and personal arrangements.
cremation service in Evanston, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options May 11, 2026
Understand legal authorization requirements for cremation in Illinois, including consent, documentation, waiting periods, and common approval steps.
cremation service in LaGrange, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options May 4, 2026
Understand the key differences between cremation planning and funeral planning, from timing and costs to service options, family choices, and memorialization.
cremation service in Glenview, IL
By Chicagoland Cremation Options April 27, 2026
Understand what a cremation permit is, why it is required, who issues it, and how it helps protect families, providers, and legal documentation.
More Posts