What is the purpose of a burial vault?

A burial vault primarily serves to protect the casket and its contents from the weight of the earth and the elements. Its primary function is structural; it helps prevent the ground above from collapsing into the grave, which can occur due to soil erosion or settlement over time.

While the selected answer highlights the function of preventing grave robbery, it's important to understand that a vault's primary purpose is not solely about theft prevention. It provides a protective barrier that preserves the integrity of the casket and remains, ensuring that decay does not contribute to the disturbance of the grave site. This function encourages long-term maintenance of the cemetery grounds and can align with certain cultural practices regarding burial.

The other options do not adequately represent the intended purpose of a burial vault. Decorative outer casings and religious symbolism may be secondary aspects of some vault designs, but they do not capture the core function, which is rooted in protection and preservation within a cemetery context. Additionally, while costs can influence decisions regarding burial practices, burial vaults are typically viewed as a necessary component for practical reasons rather than as a means to reduce overall funeral expenses.