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Details To Expect When Visiting A Jewish Funeral
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.
Custom mandates that men prepare men for burial and women prepare women. Each will be dressed in a simple white shroud. This assures that rich and poor are buried with an equal amount of dignity.
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 decedent must be returned to the earth within 48 hours of passing away. According to Jewish custom, the casket is always closed. A rabbi prays in Hebrew. The family members may all contribute to delivering the eulogy.
Everyone is expected to listen and show a reverent attitude during the ceremony. It is considered appropriate to wear conservative, dark colored clothing. Casual wear, including sandals, is not acceptable.
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 food is a good choice. All food should be prepared for eating. This relieves the family of the chore of cooking during this period of mourning. Jewish Funeral Etiquette includes relating a memory of a time shared with the deceased. This is a way to show the family their departed is going to be remembered fondly.
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