firepiles

Firepiles, also known as pyres, are structures or arrangements of combustible material, typically wood, used for burning bodies. This practice has historical and cultural significance across various societies. The construction of a firepile can vary, but it generally involves creating a platform or base on which the body is placed, then covered with more fuel. The size and composition of the firepile depend on factors such as available materials, duration of burning desired, and cultural traditions.

The primary purpose of a firepile in funeral rites is cremation. This method of disposing of the deceased has been practiced for millennia and is found in many religions and cultures, often associated with beliefs about the soul's journey or the purification of the body. While historically common, modern cremations are now more frequently conducted in controlled crematoriums rather than outdoor firepiles. However, in some parts of the world and within certain communities, the traditional practice of using firepiles for cremation continues, often carried out with specific rituals and community involvement. The process is typically supervised by individuals knowledgeable in the proper and respectful execution of the cremation.