What is Kotsuage?

Kotsuage is when the family gathers after the creation of a loved one to pick up the bones. When a body is cremated, fragments of the bone remain in the ash. In the west, these fragments are removed by the crematorium. Only the ashes are returned to the family.

Why do Japanese cremate?

As Buddhism spread through eastern Asia during the first two millennia AD, so did the practice of cremation. Death created pollution, people believed, and the ritual disposal of bodies was supposed to be cleansing.

Are Japanese buried or cremated?

The majority of funerals (葬儀, sōgi or 葬式, sōshiki) in Japan include a wake, the cremation of the deceased, a burial in a family grave, and a periodic memorial service. According to 2007 statistics, 99.81% of deceased Japanese are cremated.

How does Japanese cremation work?

In a Japanese style cremation, the coffin is placed on a tray in the crematorium. The family then witnesses the sliding of the body into the cremation chamber, scarring small children for life.

Is cremation in the Bible?

The practice of cremation is found throughout the Bible. The first time cremation is referenced as a burial practice is Samuel 1:31: “When the people of Jabesh Gilead heard what the Philistines had done to Saul, 12 all their valiant men marched through the night to Beth Shan.

Why do Japanese pour water on graves?

Pouring Water on Graves and Other Customs After washing and purifying your hands, you collect water in a pail and head to the grave. Pails can be rented free of charge. After joining your hands in prayer, you pour the water onto the tombstone a little bit at a time and carefully wash the tombstone.

What does the Quran say about cremation?

Cremation is prohibited under Islamic law because, unlike in some cultures, it is considered a violation of the dignity of the human body. Based on reports attributed to Prophet Muhammed it is mustaḥab (or preferred)—i.e., not farḍ/wājib (compulsory)—to bury the dead bodies quickly.

How do crematoriums get rid of the smell?

Modern cremation systems feature smoke stacks and exhaust fans that remove almost all odor. Decomposed bodies smell especially bad when they’re set on fire.

Do Japanese keep ashes at home?

In Japan, the cremated ashes and remaining bones are given to the family to take home. There is no law requiring a funeral. You may — as many Japanese do — prefer to keep your loved ones’ remains with you at home.