Is cremation permissible for Jehovah's Witnesses?

• A. Yes
• B. No
• C. Only in civil law
• D. Not specified

Answer: (A)

Cremation is permissible. Jehovah’s Witnesses do not have a doctrinal prohibition against cremation, and there is no absolute biblical command that burial must be used. The faith emphasizes the hope of a future resurrection by God, not the preservation of the body in its present form, so the physical disposition of the body does not affect their beliefs about life after death. Because of that, the choice to cremate is considered a personal or family decision, often guided by practical considerations or local regulations.

In practice, a funeral service for a Jehovah’s Witness should still reflect their simple, hopeful focus on resurrection and comfort for the bereaved, while accommodating the family’s wishes and any civil requirements. The other options imply restrictions or conditions that aren’t accurate, since there isn’t a universal ban or a mandate limited to civil law.