September 28, 2004
The ‘ashes’ phrase isn’t in the Bible
I’ve got a question that arose after reading your "When Somebody Dies" series, although the question isn’t directly about your articles.
I’ve been wondering where on earth does the "ashes to ashes" quote you hear referred to during a funeral. I can’t find it in the Bible.
Do I need to go back to Bible study or what?
John T., Medford
If you need to return to Bible study it isn’t because you can’t find that well-known quote in the good book, John.
That phrase, "ashes to ashes, dust to dust," is not there.
However, it does come from the "Book of Common Prayer." And it is based on Genesis 3:19.
That book, which hails from the 16th Century and the Church of England, is treasured by many as a literary masterpiece for its wonderful lines.
In fact, that old standard at the wedding, "Dearly beloved, we are gathered here together ... " also comes from the Book of Common Prayer.
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