•  Granite Headstones

•  Upright Markers

•  Memorial Monuments

•  Memorial Tomb Stones

•  Cemetery Gravestones

•  Cemetety Statues

•  Memorial Stones

•  Obelisks & Cenotaphs

•  Granite Memorials
  •  Bench Headstones
  •  Angel Memorials
  •  Jesus Headstones

•  Garden Stones

•  Memorial Symbols
  •  Crosses
  •  Jesus
  •  Crucifixion
  •  Resurrection
  •  Mary
  •  Heart Shapes

•  Service Areas

•  Funeral Services & Tips

•  Mortuary List & Tips

•  Cemetery List & Tips

•  Obituary Glossary & Tips

•  Cremation Tips

•  Memorial Music Tips

•  Memorial Poems & Tips

•  Sympathy Quotes & Tips

•  Urns Glossary & Tips

•  Caskets Glossary & Tips

•  Funeral Cost & Tips

•  Funeral Flowers & Tips

•  Funeral Homes Tips

Basics To Expect When Going To Jewish Funerals

Respect for the deceased is exhibited by following the rules of Jewish Funeral Etiquette. The memorial service is a gathering to grieve together. Family members should be allowed to start each conversation. Then friends can share memories.

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.

Males complete the preparations for males. Females prepare the female decedent. Each individual is washed and then covered in a white shroud. Males are buried with prayer shawls that have a tassel removed. Everyone, rich or poor deserves a decent burial. By using simple garments for all, equal treatment and respect is assured.

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 burial must take place within 48 hours of the time of death. A closed casket is customary. A rabbi will pray at the memorial service in the Hebrew language. Family members will offer eulogies.

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 family members are the only ones who attend the graveside service. After that, the family sits shiva for the next week. Visitors come to offer their expressions of sympathy. It is customary to bring casseroles and other prepared meals.

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.