How does in-ground burial differ from entombment?

In-ground burial is characterized by the practice of placing a body directly into the soil, typically within a casket or burial container that is lowered into a grave. This method allows for natural decomposition over time and is the traditional method of interment.

On the other hand, entombment occurs when a body is placed in a mausoleum or a crypt, which is an above-ground structure that provides a sealed environment for the deceased. This method is often chosen for its aesthetic appeal or for practical reasons, such as space limitations in certain areas.

Understanding this distinction clarifies that while both in-ground burial and entombment are forms of final disposition, they differ significantly in terms of their physical settings and methods of interment.