Cultural Views Towards Ash Scatterings

For the last several thousand years, cremation, as well as the scattering of ashes at sea, has been embraced by many cultures throughout the world, specifically throughout the Pacific Islands such as Hawaii. Both cremation and traditional burial have gone through periods of preference throughout history; however, in recent times cremation has proved a more desirable alternative for honoring the deceased.

The earliest religions to not only embrace, but also prescribe cremation, were those of Indian descent. East Indian religions, such as Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism and Buddhism , mandate cremation. In these religions, the body is seen as an instrument to carry the soul. According to Hindu philosophy the human body is a combination of five basic natural elements; namely agni (fire), jala (water), vayu (air), prithvi (earth) and akasha (space/ether). When one dies, fire ceases, and that living form is sent to its original state of creation. Fire, in the form of cremation, is used to complete the fifth element.

Throughout the Hawaiian island, cremation is regarded as the most popular burial method. The combination of fire and water having formed the islands, it is seen as a fit way of celebrating the circle of life. Through the process of ash scattering, all are reminded of the journey the soul takes.

Historically, in Christian cultures, cremation has been discouraged; however in modern day, it has become much more accepted throughout the various denominations. The early Church’s disapproval of cremation stemmed from several ideas. The first of those being that the body was an instrument through which sacraments were received therefore in and of itself, a sacramental, holy object. Secondly, the Church believed that the body being integrally connected with the human person, should be disposed of in a way that was to honor it and show reverence. This belief was due to the fact that many early cremation practices were viewed as pagan in origin, and an insult to the body. Lastly, the Church believed that by cremating a human’s remains it meant the denial of the resurrection of the body; however, this was refuted as early as Minucius Felix, in his dialogue Octavius. With the spread of Protestantism, churches became much more accepting of cremation, specifically the scattering of ashes at sea.

As time progresses and cultures continue to develop and change, ash scatterings are becoming a more symbolic approach to commemorating the deceased, as opposed to the more traditional burials. By opting for an ash scattering, the family and/or friends can celebrate a loved one’s life by participating in a ceremony that aides in bringing closure and acceptance to those left behind. No matter what cultural and geographical differences exist, ash scatterings are a timeless tradition that will continue to serve as a meaningful way to never forget those that have passed on.