What You Should Know When Attending Jewish Funeral Services
The requirements of Jewish Funeral Etiquette share many of the features of any memorial service. The customs surrounding this time for mourning include sharing pleasant memories of the lost loved one and paying your last respects. The rules of etiquette that apply to the burial customs of this religion have many similarities to all funerals.
The deceased is attended by someone from time of death till the last moments of the graveside service. The body is prepared for burial by being washed. During this preparation it is mandated that the body always face upwards.
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.
The body is placed in a wooden casket allowing it to eventually be turned into dust. Those who mourn express it by rending their garments. This means they tear their outer clothing as an expression of their grief.
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.
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.
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.
