Sandapilarii were responsible for what in funeral rites?

The role of sandapilarii in funeral rites is primarily associated with the responsibility of placing the remains in the ground, which aligns with your selected answer. In ancient Roman funerary practices, sandapilarii were individuals tasked specifically with the burial of the deceased. This was a significant function in the context of funerary customs, as the proper interment of the body was crucial for ensuring peace for the departed soul and adherence to cultural and religious norms surrounding death and burial.

Understanding this role highlights the importance of the final resting place and the rituals involved in laying a body to rest. The act of burial was often accompanied by various rituals and customs, reflecting the beliefs of the community regarding the afterlife and the treatment of the deceased. This context places the function of sandapilarii at the heart of the funeral rites, emphasizing their vital role in the process of honoring the dead through appropriate burial practices.

While other responsibilities in funeral rites may include aspects like constructing the catafalque or participating in the Requiem Mass, these duties do not specifically pertain to the act of burial itself, which is the essential role carried out by sandapilarii.