expression, godan verb (-u)
collect the ashes of the deceased
Refers to the act of picking up the cremated bones of a deceased person, typically done by family members after a funeral.
葬儀の後、親族で骨を拾った。
After the funeral, the relatives collected the ashes.
expression, godan verb (-u)
look after someone's affairs after their death
Figurative extension: to take care of the deceased's unfinished business, debts, or personal matters. Often used in contexts of loyalty or duty.
彼は亡くなった友人の借金の整理をして、骨を拾った。
He looked after his deceased friend's affairs by settling his debts.