Jewish Funeral

Rabbi Leibel Miller

Chevra Kadisha
Throughout time in memoriam in all cities where there is a Jewish population has always been established a Chevra Kadisha, (Holy Society), which is involved in the administering of this true act kindness. The Chevra Kadisha
takes responsibility for this holy task of applying the ultimate kindness.

• TAHARAH / PURIFICATION—Ecclesiastes
stated, “As he came, so shall he go.” Just as a newborn child is immediately washed and enters this world clean and pure, so shall a person who departs this world be cleansed and
made pure. The traditional washing and dressing of the deceased with dignity. Performed by trained members of the Chevra Kadisha (Sacred Society). Men prepare men while
women prepare women in accordance with Jewish traditional law.
• SHMEERAH / WATCHING—The deceased should not be left unattended until interment is completed. Psalms are traditionally recited by the Shomer (Watcher). •

TACHRICHIM / BURIAL GARMENTS—
A full set of traditional white clothing, preferably made of linen, includes: hat, shirt, pants, jacket, belt, and wrapping sheet. This symbolizes equality and purity. • ORON /CASKET—The wooden casket in keeping with the Biblical teaching “For dust art thou and to the dust thou shalt return”
(Genesis 3:19) • K’REEAH / TEARING OF GARMENTS—The rending of the mourners’ outer garments, a symbol of their anguish and grief. thou and to the dust thou shalt return” (Genesis 3:19) • PRAYING AND SAYING KADDISH—It is a mitzvah for prayer services to be held during
the seven-day mourning period at the home of the deceased. Kaddish is said for 11 months
after the passing of the deceased and on the day of Yahrzeit ■