Which of the following best describes the role of sandapilarii?

The term "sandapilarii" refers specifically to those who were responsible for the burial of the dead. In the context of funeral practices, their role was centered around the physical act of interring the deceased, which places them distinctly in the function of burial rather than other aspects of funeral service. This includes organizing the burial process, ensuring that the body was laid to rest properly, and managing the surrounding elements of the burial site.

The other options, while related to aspects of funeral service, address different functions. For example, embalmers are specifically involved in the preservation of the body before burial, grave markers serve as monuments or indicators of where individuals are interred, and assistants who prepared the body may assist with tasks like washing or dressing during the preparation phase. Each of these roles serves important purposes in the overall funeral process but does not match the specific definition and responsibilities associated with sandapilarii.