Bereavement In Jewish Culture

Although the Mourners Kaddish is the most well know aspect of Jewish grieving

, the process is rich, multi-dimensional, and rooted in tradition. Everything from the preparation of the body to which Jewish prayers for the dead are recited is done in strict accordance with Jewish laws that date back centuries and draw on Torah teachings. If you think that the Kaddish is the only tenant of Jewish bereavement you are wrong.

Many steps go into preparing a body for a proper Jewish burial. A Chevra Kadisha or Burial Group is charged with making these arrangements. Often times this group is made of friends and relatives of the deceased as well as representative from the local Synagogue. This group will cleanse and dress the body and often they will dig the grave. While the family observes Shiva and recites the Mourners Kaddish the Burial Group help them prepare meals and tending to other issues. They also help organize a Jewish memorial service if need be.

Burial is supposed to take place as soon as possible after the death. In some cases extra time is granted so that relatives can be gathered and other arrangements can be made. Typically, however, burying as soon as possible after death is desired. Other than cleaning the body undergoes no manipulation. The tradition of burying the body quickly after death dates back to the days before refrigeration. Israel's hot climate makes bodies decompose quickly. To prevent this a quick burial after death was encouraged. Once the body is buried you can move on to the next steps in the Jewish memorial service.

Family members go home after the funeral and sit on the ground to represent the low feeling of loss. They eat round foods like lentils and eggs because that is what Jacob is said to have eaten after the death of Abraham. The family and others recite the Kaddish. Often people will call or visit to show support. The window of mourning typically lasts seven days. Some exceptions are made however, for the Sabbath or other Holidays. Rosh Hashanah puts an end to the mourning period altogether.

The mourning period is spread out over many periods. The first days mark the most intense mourning. Then there are 30 days of less stringent but still fairly observant mourning. The mourning doesn't end until one year after death. For the 11 months after the initial 30 days the person is encouraged to say the Kaddish often.

by: Mark Etinger

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