How to Sit Shiva
Where to Sit Shiva: “Sitting shiva," is an emotionally and spiritually healing time where the mourners may dwell together and have friends and loved ones come to support them with short visits when they "make a shiva call.", After the Funeral:The...
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Where to Sit Shiva: “Sitting shiva
The home of a direct mourner is said to be filled with the spirit of the loved one who is now gone.
Memories will come easily there, and part of the comfort of shiva is remembering the deceased by sharing stories of his or her life with friends and family.
It is considered a great mitzvah (act of kindness) to visit someone "sitting shiva. " -
Step 2: " is an emotionally and spiritually healing time where the mourners may dwell together and have friends and loved ones come to support them with short visits when they "make a shiva call."
The Shiva period is traditionally 7 days, beginning the day of the funeral and running through the morning of the seventh day.
Many Jewish families, however, opt to sit shiva for a lesser number of days. , "Shiva Food" is provided by relatives, friends and neighbors.
It is a mitzvah for visitors to send prepared food to mourners, to assure there is plenty to eat as observant mourners may not cook or prepare food using heat.
If the family observes traditional Jewish dietary laws only kosher foods should be sent. , Immediate family members sit on low, uncomfortable stools.
Grief is traditionally expressed by tearing one's clothing.
Alternatively, mourners may choose to wear a small black ribbon that is cut by the Rabbi for a period of 30 days.
A Jewish memorial candle may be lit and remain burning publicly 24 hours a day for the entire week.
The candle, reminds us that our loved one's soul is eternal. , This is a good time to "make a shiva call" and non-Jews are welcomed to participate. , (Isaiah 60:20) When shiva is over, mourners may take a short walk around the block, to symbolize their return to society. -
Step 3: After the Funeral:The word "Shiva" in English
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Step 4: translates as "Seven".
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Step 5: Provide Food for Mourners: After returning home from the funeral
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Step 6: the mourners eat a traditional "meal of condolence" - traditionally round foods symbolic of the need for life to go on.
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Step 7: Jewish Customs to follow at a Shiva House: In a traditional Jewish house of mourning; mirrors are covered
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Step 8: leather shoes are not worn
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Step 9: the immediate family does not cut their hair
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Step 10: engage in marital relations
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Step 11: listen to music or watch television or partake in anything that can be construed as joyous.
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Step 12: Daily Prayer Services at the Shiva House: Jewish Prayers services may be held daily at the home.
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Step 13: How to End Sitting Shiva: The last day of shiva is observed for just a few hours and the following may be recited: No more will your sun set
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Step 14: nor your moon be darkened
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Step 15: for God will be an eternal light for you
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Step 16: and your days of mourning shall end.
Detailed Guide
The home of a direct mourner is said to be filled with the spirit of the loved one who is now gone.
Memories will come easily there, and part of the comfort of shiva is remembering the deceased by sharing stories of his or her life with friends and family.
It is considered a great mitzvah (act of kindness) to visit someone "sitting shiva. "
The Shiva period is traditionally 7 days, beginning the day of the funeral and running through the morning of the seventh day.
Many Jewish families, however, opt to sit shiva for a lesser number of days. , "Shiva Food" is provided by relatives, friends and neighbors.
It is a mitzvah for visitors to send prepared food to mourners, to assure there is plenty to eat as observant mourners may not cook or prepare food using heat.
If the family observes traditional Jewish dietary laws only kosher foods should be sent. , Immediate family members sit on low, uncomfortable stools.
Grief is traditionally expressed by tearing one's clothing.
Alternatively, mourners may choose to wear a small black ribbon that is cut by the Rabbi for a period of 30 days.
A Jewish memorial candle may be lit and remain burning publicly 24 hours a day for the entire week.
The candle, reminds us that our loved one's soul is eternal. , This is a good time to "make a shiva call" and non-Jews are welcomed to participate. , (Isaiah 60:20) When shiva is over, mourners may take a short walk around the block, to symbolize their return to society.
About the Author
Christine Phillips
Creates helpful guides on home improvement to inspire and educate readers.
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