How Are the Dead Buried in the Greek Orthodox Tradition?
Discover the key practices and beliefs behind Greek Orthodox burial rituals including funeral prayers, open casket viewings, and the emphasis on physical resurrection.
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In the Greek Orthodox tradition, burial of the dead involves a funeral service led by a priest, typically including prayers, hymns, and readings from scripture. The body is viewed, often in an open casket, allowing loved ones to pay their final respects. Cremation is traditionally discouraged, reflecting a belief in the physical resurrection. Following the service, the burial takes place, where more prayers are offered. The deceased are usually buried in consecrated ground, emphasizing respect for the body in its resting place.
FAQs & Answers
- Why is cremation discouraged in the Greek Orthodox Church? Cremation is traditionally discouraged in the Greek Orthodox Church because of the belief in the physical resurrection of the body, emphasizing respect for the deceased's physical remains.
- What happens during a Greek Orthodox funeral service? A Greek Orthodox funeral service is led by a priest and includes prayers, hymns, readings from scripture, and often allows loved ones to view the body in an open casket to pay their respects.
- Where are Greek Orthodox deceased usually buried? Greek Orthodox deceased are usually buried in consecrated ground, which highlights the reverence given to the body as it rests.
- Can family members view the body during a Greek Orthodox funeral? Yes, it is common for family and friends to view the body, often in an open casket, to pay their final respects during the funeral service.