The word for funeral in Judaism is levaya, which means accompanying. To accompany a person to their final resting place is an act of love and kindness for both the deceased and their family and this video explains a few of the Jewish practices to expect
In Judaism, traditions around death have two purposes – to comfort the living, and to show respect for the dead. Understanding some of the more nuanced Jewish traditions and rituals for caring for a body before the funeral may help provide some support in a grieving process.
Shiva is a word people use to explain the week-long mourning period in Judaism. When friends and loved ones lose someone, it can be hard to know how to support them. This video on the Jewish practice of Shiva helps explain about the specific mourning practices in Judaism, and what your friend needs from you.
The death of a loved one is a very disorienting time, and isn’t something many people think about until it’s actually happening to them. Understanding some of the traditions and the structured periods of mourning that Judaism offers may help provide some support in the grieving process.
What is the phrase, “Sitting Shiva” all about? Sitting Shiva (שבעה “seven”) is a week-long Jewish mourning ritual during which family, friends and neighbors traditionally gather in one home and receive visitors. In this short informational video Jana explains her experience sitting shiva and how she found comfort in many Jewish bereavement rituals when her […]
What is a “Chevra Kadisha” all about? A Chevra Kadisha (חברה קדישא “holy group”) is a volunteer Jewish burial society that takes responsibility for the ritual cleansing and subsequent dressing of a body for burial. When Susan’s husband, Morton, passed away, the Chevra Kadisha group at her synagogue stepped up and offered support during this […]
Do Jews hold a funeral after miscarriage? The answer to this question is not a yes or no. In this short informational video Chai explains her experience creating a funeral after miscarriage with a friend and how she felt held by her community through this deeply personal and difficult time.
Shiva is a word that means seven in Hebrew. Shiva is a word people use to explain the week-long mourning period in Judaism. When friends and loved ones lose someone, it can be hard to know how to support them. This video on the Jewish practice of Shiva (שבעה “seven”) helps explain about the specific […]
In Judaism, ground burial is generally accepted as the only way to respect someone after they die. However, more and more people both within and without Judaism are choosing cremation. This video takes a look at some of the ways to address this issue and how each of us can make the choice that’s right […]
It’s never easy to tell your child when a loved one has died. Watch this video to get some advice on how to talk to your kids about death featuring chaplain Laura Fitch and parent, Alana Kadden Ballon. Below are some of the advice Laura and Alana share: Use simple, clear words Find a supportive […]
