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What You Should Know When Attending Jewish Funerals

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 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.

Conservative clothing in dark colors is the customary clothing for family and friends to wear. No casual clothes are permitted, such as sandals or shorts. That would show a lack of respect on this solemn occasion.

In most cases, only family members attend the burial at the cemetery. They next sit shiva in the following week. Flowers are not brought to the family. Instead, those who visit to offer condolences bring gifts of food.

Casseroles and other prepared meals are brought to the family because they should not be burdened with cooking at this time. Jewish Funeral Etiquette includes visitors sharing an anecdote or two of times shared with the departed. This shows that the friend will not be forgotten.