Exhume: That is the meaning
Exhumation is usually only mentioned in connection with the opening of a grave. In fact, the word has another meaning that has nothing to do with death.
Exhume: the meaning after the burial of a corpse
The origin comes from the Latin word exhumane and means "dig again".
- There are many reasons for opening a grave site. On the one hand, the family may want to change beds. On the other hand, criminal proceedings can be the occasion when the public prosecutor and the court hope to gain new knowledge, for example in a murder case.
- In all cases, there must be important reasons for the excavation of the body and the application must be made in writing. Contact the cemetery authority. There you will be given the necessary information because exhumations are regulated differently in each state.
- In addition to the cemetery authority, the regulatory office usually also has to agree. In some federal states, the consent of the health department is also required.
- If an exhumation is requested by the public prosecutor or a judge, the next of kin of the deceased will be informed.
- If the corpse is brought to the family's request, this will cost between 1, 000 and 3, 000 euros. Find out more in advance from the cemetery administration.
- The currently best known case of exhumation is surely that of the painter Salvador Dalí, who died in 1989. Pilar Abel Martínez claimed to be his daughter and 30 years after his death the coffin was opened to take DNA samples at the direction of a judge. As it turned out, the lady is not related to the painter.
Exhumation in geology
The term is also used in geology.
- The word is used here in connection with the natural erosion of rock and soil.
- It can also mean that stones are dug up and brought to the surface of the earth.
