Mourn

Does Judaism Believe in the Right to Die?

All denominations of Judaism prohibit assisted suicide and euthanasia, but there is some room for nuance.

Special Issues in Mourning

The Jewish tradition explains how converts are to mourn, whether a wedding should be postponed and the kohen's delimited relationship to the dead.

Role of the Shiva Minyan

The daily prayer services in the mourner's home offer community and connection to those facing devastating loss.

Why Jews Put Stones on Graves

Although the custom of placing them on a grave probably draws upon pagan customs, the stones also symbolize the permanence of memory.

Afterlife and the Messiah 101

Judaism isn't entirely clear on what happens after we die.

Sheloshim: The First 30 Days of Mourning

Following shiva, the sheloshim period of less intensive mourning lasts until the 30th day after the funeral.

Is There a Jewish Afterlife?

Judaism is famously ambiguous about what happens when we die.

Contemporary Issues in Jewish Death, Burial and Mourning

Multi-faith families, neonatal loss, autopsies and suicide

Viddui: The Deathbed Confession

Traditional and liberal possibilities for this little-known practice

On Being with Those Who Are Dying

The Jewish tradition of being at the bedside of the dying is of immense value, not only for the dying person but also for those about to be bereaved--and for all of us, who must learn to face death.

Autopsies and Jewish Law: An Orthodox Perspective

Contrary to popular belief, Jewish law does not have an absolute prohibition on this post-death procedure.