Preventing Cremation  - דעת - לימודי יהדות באור החסידות

Ask The Rabbi

Ask The Rabbi

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Preventing Cremation 

The Rav Name: Rabbi Boaz Yurkowitz

My father passed away 24 years ago. Before he passed, he asked my mother to have him cremated and spread his ashes. My father (and mother) was Jewish and aware this is not in accordance with the Jewish faith. My mother recently informed my that she chose to place my father’s remains in an urn at the cemetery so family could visit, and she purchased the spot next to my father for us to place her ashes when she passes away.
I am seeking your advice because my father told great stories about the need to seek advice from a Rabbi, and I would like to know if I should advocate for my father’s wishes or continue with my mother’s wishes. I am not sure how to honor them both. Thank you.

There are two aspects to going to the Mikveh: 1. Immersion in accordance with the ruling of Ezra HaSofer, which is done in case there was nocturnal emission, and is therefore very important. 2. Immersion for the sake of additional purity, and for this purpose if you have difficulty in going, you can say Mishnayot from Seder Taharot.

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