Death and Mourning in Judaism

This section explores Death and Mourning in Judaism. In Jewish tradition, death is treated with great reverence, and there are specific practices and rituals that help guide mourners through the difficult period following a loss. Burial is considered an important and sacred act, and Jewish customs surrounding death are designed to honour both the deceased and their family, while also providing a structured way for mourners to express their grief and find comfort.

Burial and Preparation of the Body

Upon death, it is customary for the eyes of the deceased to be closed, if they are not already, and the body is washed and prepared for burial. This process is carried out with the utmost respect and dignity. Traditionally, the body is cleansed by a group of individuals known as the chevra kadisha (the "holy society"), who are specifically tasked with preparing the deceased for burial in a ritual known as taharah.

The body is then dressed in simple white linen garments, symbolising purity and equality in death. It is customary for Jewish people to be buried in simple, plain coffins, reflecting the belief in equality before God, regardless of the individual's social status during their life. The body is then taken to a cemetery for the burial, which typically takes place as soon as possible after death, often within 24 hours. This prompt burial is seen as a way of showing respect for the deceased and hastening their return to the earth.

The funeral service is conducted at the cemetery, not in the synagogue, and typically includes a series of prayers, psalms, and a eulogy. The eulogy is a time to reflect on the life of the deceased and their contributions, as well as to offer words of comfort and encouragement to the grieving family.

Mourning Practices

One of the first rituals mourners engage in is kriah – the tearing of clothing, which is a symbol of grief and mourning. This act represents the deep sorrow that family members feel at the loss of a loved one. The tear is typically made on the left side of the clothing, over the heart, as a way of showing the emotional pain and loss that the death has caused.

In addition to kriah, the Kaddish prayer is said during mourning. The Kaddish is a prayer that praises God and focuses on His greatness. It is said to help mourners concentrate on God at a time when they may feel distant or disconnected from Him due to their grief. The Kaddish provides a way to reaffirm faith and maintain a connection with the divine during a time of sorrow.

Shiva

The most well-known period of mourning in Jewish tradition is Shiva, which lasts for seven days following the burial. This time is set aside for mourners to express their grief, reflect on their loss, and receive support from their family, friends, and community. During Shiva, Orthodox Jewish mourners traditionally do not leave the house. Instead, visitors come to offer condolences, comfort, and prayers, and a minyan (a quorum of ten adult Jews) is often gathered in the home for communal prayer. The Shiva period allows the mourners to focus on their grief, while being supported by the community, and provides a structured time for reflection and healing.

Mourning for a Parent: Avelut

When a Jew loses a parent, the mourning period extends beyond Shiva and continues for a full year. This extended mourning is known as Avelut and is one of the most significant periods of mourning in Jewish life. During the Avelut period, the mourner continues to recite the Kaddish prayer every day for 11 months, as a way of honouring the deceased parent and seeking spiritual solace. The mourning for a parent is seen as particularly intense, and the observance of Avelut is an important way of acknowledging the significant role that parents play in a person's life.

Remembering the Dead

There are several practices and customs followed to ensure that the memory of the deceased is preserved and honoured throughout the years. One of the most important rituals is the placing of a gravestone to mark the grave. This serves as a physical reminder of the deceased and ensures that they are not forgotten.

Another key tradition is the recitation of the Kaddish and the lighting of candles on the anniversary of a person’s death, known as the yahrzeit. On this day, mourners also reflect on the life of the deceased, offering prayers and giving thanks for the time they shared. It is also common for individuals to fast or make charitable donations in memory of the deceased, further emphasising the importance of giving in honour of those who have passed away.

The yahrzeit is a deeply meaningful occasion, and it serves as an opportunity for the family to reflect on the legacy of their loved one, while also fulfilling the commandment to honour the dead. Many families will also visit the grave of the deceased on this day, bringing flowers or lighting candles as a mark of respect.

Jewish death and mourning rituals are deeply rooted in tradition, with each step designed to provide comfort and structure to mourners. These customs help guide the grieving process and provide a way to honour the deceased, ensuring their memory is preserved in the hearts of their family and community. Through the practices of burial, mourning, prayer, and remembrance, Jewish tradition offers a holistic approach to death, emphasising both the grief of loss and the spiritual connection to the divine.