What To Expect When Attending A Rabbi Funeral

By Harold Lee


If you are not Jewish, chances are that you will not have an idea about the rules of etiquette that should be upheld during a traditional funeral service. Among the basic things you should know is that Jews are buried 24 hours or less after their dismissal and this means that there may not be a wake or viewing of the body ceremony. Those close to the deceased may even so perform Keriah, in memory of the life a deceased loved one. This expresses their anguish during a rabbi funeral.

If you are not a Jew, this does not mean that you cannot attend the funeral of a dear friend or a close relative to your friend. It is even so vital for you to have a good idea of what to expect and also what people will expect of you. To begin with, say as little as possible. Even better, it is allowed to say nothing at all to the mourners.

You also want to select your dress code wisely. In this case, just be fairly decent, perhaps in a smart casual outfit. Also avoid wearing heels, especially if you will be attending the graveside ceremony. In case you really need to offer your condolences to the grieving family, get to the service minutes ahead of time and do so. Jews leave the chapel for the graveyard directly or the graveyard for their homes and it is not polite to hold them back with greetings and the rest.

If you arrive at the chapel before the service starts, get sited. You can also talk in low tones with the people next to you as long as you maintain a low key. This would also be the best time to switch off your phone to avoid interruptions once the service begins.

As mentioned earlier, your presence is appreciated and this means it is okay for you to just listen. Very little is required of the congregation and there will be someone conducting some psalms, prayers and reading the eulogy. The stories about the rabbi may bring about moments of light laughter amid the sadness of saying the final goodbye.

The final service for rabbis will in the majorities of cases happen in the chapel. This makes it unnecessary for non-family members to attend the graveside ceremony that will only take ten minutes at most. The area is likely to have limited chairs that ought to be used by the mourners.

Jews host a Shiva about seven days after a funeral. This takes place at the home of the deceased and attending will again be a kind thing to do. It is okay to arrive, shake hands with the morning family and leave. It is also kind to bring some food as long as you avoid items that are not allowed by the Jewish laws.

The Jewish laws demand that one lives a good life when they are alive. They never talk about the afterlife so do not bring up the topic. You are also likely not to see bouquets of flowers all over so if you desire to make a kind gesture, choose to make a donation in respect of the deceased rabbi.




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