Engaging eternity: A Jewish approach to death, dying, grief and bereavement

Abstract

While Judaism is a religion focused on life, there is a clear system of guidelines to deal with death and bereavement. Respect and care of the dying along with support of the bereaved through the grief process are recognised in this tradition and outlined in this paper. Both religious law and custom focus on communal support for individuals at this time of life. Death and bereavement rituals include dress, food, sanctioned behaviour, caring for the body before burial, and the role of the community. This paper describes rituals for marking the anniversary of the death and acknowledges differences between the denominations.

Key words:

• Judaism
• shiva
• Kaddish
• Halacha
• pastoral/spiritual care