What is a Jewish funeral called?
A Jewish funeral is called a “Shiva” or “Shivah,” which is a period of mourning that typically lasts for seven days following the death of a loved one. During this time, family and friends gather to offer comfort, support, and to honor the memory of the deceased. The Shiva is a deeply spiritual and emotional experience, rooted in Jewish tradition and designed to help the bereaved cope with their loss.
The Shiva is an integral part of Jewish mourning practices, which emphasize the importance of community support and the sanctity of life. The period of mourning is marked by specific rituals and customs that are observed to ensure that the deceased is remembered with dignity and respect.
Understanding the Shiva Process
The Shiva process begins immediately after the funeral, when the body is buried or cremated. The family and close friends then gather at the home of the deceased or at a designated location, where they will spend the next seven days. During this time, the following customs are typically observed:
1. Sitting Shiva: The mourners are encouraged to sit at home, as a sign of respect for the deceased and to signify their vulnerability. They may receive visitors, who are welcomed to share stories and memories of the deceased.
2. Visitors: Friends and family members visit the home of the mourners to offer condolences and support. It is customary for visitors to bring food or flowers as a gesture of kindness and to help the family during this difficult time.
3. Reading from the Torah: The mourners, along with their visitors, may read from the Torah, the sacred text of Judaism, to honor the deceased and to find comfort in their faith.
4. Singing: Music and song are an important part of the Shiva, as they help to lift the spirits of the mourners and to celebrate the life of the deceased.
5. Wearing a Tzitzit: Mourners are encouraged to wear a garment with tzitzit, the ritual fringes found on traditional Jewish garments, as a reminder of their connection to the deceased and to the Jewish community.
Conclusion
The Jewish funeral, or Shiva, is a profound and meaningful experience that brings together family, friends, and the community to honor the memory of a loved one. By observing the customs and rituals of the Shiva, the bereaved are able to find solace in their faith and in the support of those around them. The Shiva is a time for reflection, healing, and the celebration of life, and it serves as a testament to the strength and resilience of the Jewish people.
