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Question: Why does a “Kosher” casket have to be made of wood? 

N.L., Warwick

Dear N.L.,

In keeping with halakhah (Jewish Law), a Jewish person is supposed to return to the earth from which he or she was formed as soon as possible after death. Metal caskets do not allow the natural processes to happen in a reasonable time and some even prevent the person from returning to the earth at all. Wood caskets are biodegradable and are in keeping with halakhah.

Questions are welcomed and encouraged. Please send questions to: ShalomChapel@aol.com or by mail to Ask the Director, c/o Shalom Memorial Chapel, 1100 New London Ave., Cranston, R.I. 02920.

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