Judaism: Mourning Rituals | Religion, Philosophy & Ethics for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

Mourning Rituals in Judaism

The customs observed after a death in Judaism vary depending on the individual and the specific branch of Judaism they adhere to, such as Orthodox or Reform. These rituals are deeply meaningful and reflect the community's values of respect, remembrance, and spiritual connection.

Key Rituals Surrounding Death

Kriah: Symbolizing Grief

Upon learning of a loved one’s passing, a Jew expresses their sorrow by tearing their clothing, an act known as kriah. This physical gesture serves as a powerful symbol of loss and mourning.

Preparation of the Body

After death, the body is carefully washed and prepared for burial. During the period leading up to the funeral, the body is never left unattended, ensuring respect and care for the deceased.

The Kaddish Prayer

The Kaddish is a significant prayer recited by mourners, proclaiming God’s greatness. It is traditionally said by the closest male relative on the day of the death and is often accompanied by lighting candles. The prayer helps mourners focus on God during a time of grief, offering spiritual solace. The text includes:
"May His great name be blessed, forever and ever. Blessed, praised, glorified, exalted, extolled, honored, elevated, and lauded be the Name of the Holy One, Blessed is He – above and beyond any blessings and hymns, praises, and consolations which are uttered in the world; and say Amen."

Shiva: The First Week of Mourning

The week following the funeral is called Shiva (meaning "seven" in Hebrew). During this time:

• Mourners remain at home, focusing on their grief.
• Male mourners recite the Kaddish prayer.
• Some mourners sit on low stools to signify humility, though no mourning practices occur on Shabbat.
• Mirrors are covered, and music is prohibited to maintain a somber atmosphere.
• A candle burns continuously, day and night, symbolizing the soul of the deceased, as referenced in Proverbs 20:27: "A person’s soul is the candle of the Lord."

Shloshim: The First Month

The mourning period extends beyond Shiva into a four-week phase called Shloshim (meaning "thirty"). During this time:

• Mourners refrain from attending parties.
• Haircuts are avoided as a sign of continued mourning.

Burial Rituals

In Jewish tradition, burial is arranged as soon as possible after death, reflecting the urgency of honoring the deceased. Providing a proper burial is considered both an act of kindness and a sacred duty. Immediate relatives (parents, children, siblings, or spouses) assume the role of an onan while awaiting the burial. As an onan, they are exempt from other religious obligations (mitzvot) to focus entirely on burial preparations.

• Coffin: A simple coffin is used to emphasize equality in death.
• Gravestone: Families erect a gravestone to ensure the deceased is remembered.
• Location: The burial ceremony takes place at a cemetery, not in a synagogue.

The Chevra Kadisha

The Chevra Kadisha ("sacred society") is a voluntary group with members worldwide dedicated to performing the final rites for Jewish individuals. Their responsibilities include:

• Visiting the dying person before death.
• Preparing the body for burial, ensuring it aligns with Jewish teachings and customs.
• Collaborating with funeral directors, cemeteries, hospitals, and families to facilitate a respectful burial process.
• Supporting the family during the mourning period.

Burial Ceremony

The burial process includes specific rituals:

• The deceased’s eyes are closed, and the body is washed and dressed in a plain white gown.
• The funeral service features prayers, psalms, a eulogy, blessings, and a memorial prayer.
• In some Orthodox communities, mourners walk around the coffin seven times, praying for the Angel of Mercy to accompany the deceased.
• A tombstone is erected within the first year after death in a ceremony called The Unveiling.
• Visitors to the grave leave stones, not flowers, possibly tracing back to Abraham marking Sarai’s grave with a pebble.

Yahrzeit: Annual Remembrance

Each year, on the anniversary of the death, a Yahrzeit ceremony is held. This involves:

• Reciting prayers and lighting a candle that burns for 24 hours.
• Fasting and making charitable donations to honor the memory of the deceased.

Orthodox and Reform Burial Rituals

There are notable differences in burial practices between Orthodox and Reform Jews, reflecting their distinct interpretations of Jewish law and tradition.

Orthodox Burial Rituals

• Timing: Burial occurs within 24 hours of death.
• Burial Method: Only burial is permitted, as the Torah teaches that humans come from dust and must return to dust.
• Kriah: Mourners tear their clothing to express grief.
• Shiva: Observed for seven days, with mourners sitting on low stools.
• Mourning Restrictions: No celebrations, including music, are allowed during mourning.

Reform Burial Rituals

• Timing: More time may be allowed before the funeral to accommodate family members’ attendance.
• Burial Method: Cremation is permitted, as Reform Jews emphasize the soul’s continuation over the body’s return to dust.
• Kriah: Instead of tearing clothes, mourners may wear a black ribbon to signify grief.
• Shiva: Observed for one to three days, without the use of low stools.
• Mourning Practices: Music may be played at funerals, and parties to celebrate the deceased’s life are acceptable.

The Five Stages of Mourning

Jewish mourning unfolds in five distinct stages, spanning 12 months after a loved one’s death. These stages involve close relatives, with the children of the deceased participating throughout the entire year. Each stage assigns specific roles and rituals to guide mourners through their grief while maintaining a connection to their faith and community.