Jewish mourning customs: Flashcards
(10 cards)
What do Jews do when they first hear of a close family member’s death?
They tear their clothes and say a blessing accepting God’s judgment (Genesis 37:34).
What happens before the Jewish funeral?
The body is washed, wrapped in linen (and a tallit for men), and placed in a simple coffin.
How soon after death is a Jewish funeral usually held?
Within 24 hours.
What is the first period of mourning in Judaism?
The time before burial; close family members grieve without following all Jewish laws.
What is “shiva”?
A 7-day intense mourning period starting the day of burial.
What customs are observed during shiva?
Mourners stay at home, avoid work, don’t wear makeup or shave, and recite the kaddish.
What is the third period of mourning?
It lasts 30 days after death (excluding shiva); mourners return to normal life but avoid parties/music.
What is the final mourning period for a parent?
Eleven months where children continue saying kaddish and avoid parties.
What do Jews do after the first year of mourning?
Formal mourning ends; anniversaries are marked with a candle and saying kaddish.
What is the purpose of Jewish mourning customs?
To allow time for grieving and gradually return to normal life.
