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Aside from cemetery-specific restrictions, Christianity allows Muslims to visit their cemeteries. Islam also allows Muslims to visit graveyards of other religions but not participate in the customs. Both religions permit visiting cemeteries so that followers can understand death and the afterlife.

You cannot visit Jewish cemeteries on Shabbat, as it is considered as a day of rest and a day of celebration. Judaism discourages lingering emotions for the dead and focuses on an individual’s connection to God and life. This philosophy directly contradicts grave visitation during Shabbat.

The gradual building shortage of burial spaces, inflation, and profit-oriented mindset of cemeteries have caused the cost of burial plots in Greater Vancouver to skyrocket in recent years. The average cost of burial niches has gone to over $7,000, and casket spaces on average can cost over $30,000 in 2024. Over 80% of people now choose cremation as they don’t want to pay exorbitant prices.

A Muslim cemetery looks as spartan and barren as possible. The burial ground is minimalistic and unadorned. The cemetery is kept clean of debris or dust and gathering around a grave to perform any ritual or ceremony is forbidden.

At an Islamic burial, the Muslim community gathers to pray for the dead, gives them a simple burial according to Islamic laws, and then heads to the house of the immediate family to comfort and care for them. It is a modest, somber, and sincere affair that helps the deceased and their family process the life after.

Jewish cemeteries, or ‘btei hayyim’ are graveyards that follow strict Jewish customs of death, mourning, and burial. These graveyards are holy places that must be maintained by the community and must never be used for any other function. Even mourning on the grounds is kept to a minimum.

A permanent place of remembrance preserves your loved one’s legacy. It gives you a safe space to remember, grieve, and celebrate them at your own pace. For future generations, these can be records of their family history.

Choosing the right cemetery in Surrey is a deeply personal and important decision. Factors like burial preferences, cemetery type, location, services, and costs all play a role. Public cemeteries may be budget-friendly but have limitations, while private cemeteries offer more flexibility and convenience. Religious considerations, such as Muslim and Jewish burial traditions, should also be kept in mind. Researching options, comparing costs, and assessing long-term maintenance can help ensure a final resting place that aligns with your needs and values.

Tracing your ancestors' grave sites can be a rewarding journey. Start by gathering family details, checking historical records, and speaking with relatives for clues. Contact cemeteries, search online databases, or visit graveyards yourself to uncover burial locations. Preserving findings ensures future generations can continue the legacy.