In biblical times, the role of a burier was significant, as burial customs were an important aspect of ancient Near Eastern culture, including among the Israelites. The act of burying the dead was not only a practical necessity but also held religious and cultural significance, reflecting beliefs about the afterlife and respect for the deceased.

Biblical References and Context

The Bible contains numerous references to burial practices, highlighting the importance of proper burial. In Genesis 23, Abraham's purchase of the cave of Machpelah to bury his wife Sarah underscores the significance of having a designated burial place. Genesis 23:19 states, "After this, Abraham buried his wife Sarah in the cave of the field at Machpelah near Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan."

The role of a burier is also evident in the account of the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. In Deuteronomy 34:5-6 , it is recorded that Moses died in the land of Moab, and God Himself took on the role of burier: "And Moses the servant of the LORD died there in Moab, as the LORD had said. He buried him in Moab, in the valley opposite Beth Peor, but to this day no one knows where his grave is."

Cultural and Religious Significance

In ancient Israel, burial was a communal responsibility, often carried out by family members or the community. The act of burying the dead was seen as a duty of kindness and respect, as illustrated in the account of Tobit, who risked his life to bury the dead in defiance of the king's orders (Tobit 1:16-18, though this is found in the Apocrypha and not in the Protestant canon).

The New Testament also reflects the importance of burial. In the account of Jesus' crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea is noted for his role as a burier. He courageously asked Pilate for Jesus' body and provided a tomb for His burial. Mark 15:46 records, "So Joseph bought a linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance to the tomb."

Theological Implications

The act of burial in the Bible often symbolizes hope in the resurrection. The burial of Jesus is central to Christian theology, as it precedes His resurrection, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith. The burial practices and the role of buriers in Scripture reflect a deep respect for the body and an anticipation of the resurrection, as articulated in 1 Corinthians 15:42-44 : "So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body."

Conclusion

The role of a burier in biblical times was a vital part of the community's life, reflecting both practical and spiritual dimensions. Through the act of burial, the people of God demonstrated their faith in the promises of God concerning life, death, and resurrection.(n.) One who, or that which, buries.BURIER

ber'-i-er (kabhar): "Set up a sign by it, till the buriers have buried it" (Ezekiel 39:15). "When the searchers found any human remains as they passed through the land, they were to set up a mark to attract the attention of the buriers, who followed them" (Dummelow's Commentary, in the place cited.).

See BURIAL.

Book V Here She Made an End and was for Turning the Course of Her ...
... For neither the burier nor the tiller intended that the gold should be found; but,
as I said, it was a coincidence, and it happened that the one dug up what ...
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Burier
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia. BURIER. ber'-i-er (kabhar): "Set up a sign
by it, till the buriers have buried it" (Ezekiel 39:15). ...
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Buriers (1 Occurrence)

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Buried (125 Occurrences)

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