What is the purpose of an ossuary?

An ossuary serves the specific purpose of storing cremated remains. This is a designated space or container where the ashes of individuals who have been cremated can be collected and preserved. Ossuaries can take various forms, from simple boxes to elaborate structures, and they often hold the remains of multiple individuals, reflecting the communal aspect of burial practices in certain cultures. By storing cremated remains in an ossuary, families can keep the memory of their loved ones in a respectful and recognized manner, while also allowing for the possibility of future memorialization.

The other options refer to different practices within the context of handling human remains. Burying human remains, for instance, pertains to traditional burial methods rather than the specific storage of cremains. Scattering ashes involves a different ritual altogether and doesn't imply a physical storage solution. Temporary holding of remains might suggest a short-term arrangement before a more permanent decision is made, which also diverges from the primary function of an ossuary.