Details You Should Notice 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 body is not left alone from the time the individual dies until the time of burial. A family member will be present during the preparation for burial. As the body is washed it is not proper to allow it to lie face down.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
