A central figure in the development of Jewish mysticism, Luria died at 38 and left behind no significant writings.

Multi-faith families, neonatal loss, autopsies and suicide

The practice of shmirah ensures a body is never left alone before burial.

What you need to know about Judaism's death, mourning and burial practices

The rabbis mandated a simple wooden coffin to equalize people in death and to enable the return to dust.

What to do if you or a loved one wants a final resting place in an Israeli cemetery.

The earliest phase of mourning, aninut, which occurs between death and burial, applies to immediate family members.

Abraham had to search for a grave when Sarah died. Our family was luckier.

Frequently asked questions about Jewish views on these life-saving procedures.

A Jewish ritual cleansing of the deceased fulfills the verse from Ecclesiastes 5:14, "As we come forth, so we shall return."