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What To Notice When Paying A Visit To Jewish Funeral Services
The rules of etiquette that apply to the burial customs of this religion have many similarities to all funerals. Jewish Funeral Etiquette dictates, as all funerals do, that it is a time to express sorrow. Family and beloved friends all talk about the good times they shared with the decedent.
From time of death, the body of the deceased is to be observed continuously until it is buried. Usually a family member oversees the preparation for the burial ceremony. During the washing it is traditional to keep the body facing up.
Men are prepared for burial by men and women by other women. A simple white shroud is placed on the body. The men wear a prayer shawl with one tassel missing. All being interred in a simple shroud ensures the poor of receiving the same amount of dignity as the wealthy.
A wooden coffin is used because a body is supposed to turn to dust eventually. Holes are drilled in the bottom of the casket for that reason. People show sorrow by tearing at their outer clothing.
The funeral is conducted no more than 48 hours after death. Jewish custom dictates a closed casket. Prayers will be offered by a rabbi in Hebrew. Eulogies are given by the members of the family.
Careful attention is required during the service to show reverence. Everyone is supposed to wear dark, conservative clothing to the service. Casual clothing is not allowed. Even open toed shoes are forbidden.
The group at the graveside service is all relatives. After the burial, the family observes a time of mourning called sitting shiva. During that time neighbors and friends visit and bring gifts of food.
Kosher foods and other meals are all acceptable gifts. The family is supposed to be able to avoid cooking during the mourning period. Visitors share memories of the deceased in the form of anecdotes and stories. Jewish Funeral Etiquette encourages showing that the one who passed away will be missed and remembered.
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