ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to provide pathologists engaged in autopsy practice with an overview of religions from around the world and their held beliefs and attitudes to not only death but also the care after death, including post-mortem examinations from both the physical and non-physical viewpoints. Religion is often expressed as stories, symbols, beliefs and practices, through the conviction that there is an ultimate power or reality that is often mystical in nature, giving meaning to the life experience of the individual. Such beliefs have an effect on individual moral behaviour, in turn setting religious laws and traditions. The vital importance of being aware of key beliefs to religions allows the care of the deceased and relatives to remain respectful and spiritually sensitive. Judaism is regarded as the oldest religion within the Abrahamic faiths and is entwined with culture. The Anglican Communion is the third largest Christian communion in the world and incorporates a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices.
