Ever heard the phrase “six feet under”? It’s a common saying for burial, but have you ever stopped to wonder, why specifically six feet? Is it just a saying, or is there a real reason behind this seemingly arbitrary depth?
To find our answer, we have to travel back to 1665, to the heart of London, England, during the devastating Bubonic Plague. The city was overwhelmed, and officials needed urgent measures to control the disease’s rampant spread.
The Lord Mayor of London issued a crucial order: all graves “shall be at least six feet deep.” This wasn’t a random choice; it was a deliberate public health measure, believed to minimize the chance of the disease surfacing and infecting the living.
Beyond preventing disease, this depth had other vital purposes. It made it incredibly difficult for grave robbers, who were common in the 18th and 19th centuries, to access bodies, often for medical research. It also deterred scavenging animals from disturbing the deceased and helped mask the odor of decay, keeping communities safe and respectful.
So, is every grave still six feet deep today? Not necessarily! While the tradition remains, modern burial practices often include caskets and concrete vaults, which offer significant protection. Many contemporary regulations focus on having a minimum amount of soil above the casket or vault, which can result in a total grave depth of around four feet.
Yet, the “six feet under” phrase persists, a testament to its historical roots and the deep-seated human need for a respectful, undisturbed resting place. It’s a blend of historical necessity, practical considerations for public health and safety, and enduring cultural symbolism.