judaism
Kaddish is a Mystery
The essence of Kaddish may be less in the meaning of the words than in the experience of reciting it with other Jews.
Kaddish Initiates Aveilut
After burial Jewish law requires the mourner to turn from despair in the face of death to the affirmation of life.
Jewish American Heritage Month
Celebrating our heritage and history.
The Burial and the Image of God
Prompt burial of the deceased helps to preserve the dignity of the human being, who is made in the image of God, even in death.
Soloveitchik on Aninut
During aninut, the phase between death and burial, the despairing mourner is freed of ritual obligations.
A Psychological Interpretation of the Laws of Mourning
The actions required of mourners following the death of close relatives help them to confront the reality of the death, to work through feelings of ambivalence, and to express grief and anger.
Shiva Prohibitions Embody Depersonalization
The specific prohibitions on mourners during the shiva period reflect the mourner's sense of estrangement from the life force.