The passing of a loved one often brings deep spiritual questions, one of the most common being: What happens to the soul when the body is cremated? The answer varies widely, shaped by different religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and personal philosophies. While the physical process of cremation is well understood, the soul’s journey remains a profound mystery, interpreted in many ways over centuries.

In Hinduism and Buddhism, for example, cremation plays a significant spiritual role. Hinduism views the soul (atman) as eternal, simply leaving the body at death. Cremation is seen as a sacred ritual that helps the soul detach from its physical form, enabling it to continue its journey through the cycle of reincarnation (samsara). Fire is considered a purifying force that frees the soul, allowing it to move on to its next life. This belief underscores the spiritual importance of cremation as more than just a physical act—it’s a passage toward liberation and renewal.