Jewish Burial

In keeping with the teachings of Judaism, Jewish burial customs are invested with dignity and simplicity. Great respect and dignity are accorded to the dead, and the body- which once held a human life- is believed to retain its sanctity even after death. This is similar to the treatment of an old Torah that, while no longer useable in worship, retains its holiness.

Burial and mourning customs are endowed with a profound religious significance. The funerals are devoid of ostentation; family and friends of the deceased dress and behave in a solemn manner. Family and close friends traditionally rend a visible portion of their garments directly before the funeral service; they wear this garment throughout the 7-day mourning period. Non-Orthodox Jews may wear a torn black ribbon rather than tearing or cutting a piece of their clothing.

Mourning is compulsory for the parents, spouses, siblings and children of the deceased. The initial 7-day mourning period is called Shivah; during this entire period, the mourners do not attend work or school but remain at home and receive visitors. All of the mirrors in the home are covered during this time. This is a time to contemplate the meaning of the life and the adjustments that will be necessary following the death of the beloved. Mourning is suspended on the Sabbath, as the sanctity and serenity of this day is viewed to supercede personal grief.

Internment takes place as soon as possible after death; flowers and music are inappropriate, and there is no viewing.The preparation and burial of the dead is a highly valued mitzvot, and one that is done without ulterior motive, as the dead cannot repay the kindness done to them. Traditionally, this preparation is performed by the Hevra Kadisha, a society within a Jewish community that supervises funereal preparation.