Highlighting the beauty of the life lived. The Jewish funeral is primarily for the honor of the deceased while also comforting the mourners, and inspiring the attendees to reflect on life and mortality.

The seven days following the funeral are called “Shiva” and are reserved for the mourner to mourn his loved one. Daily prayer in the mourner’s home, refraining from shaving or working, and visitors from the community all help the mourner focus on mourning and healing.

Anytime after the end of Shiva and before the first yahrtzeit (anniversary of death) the headstone is ceremoniously unveiled. Psalms, a eulogy, the Malei Rachamim prayer, and Kaddish are all said.

The ancient Kaddish prayer may only be said in the presence of ten Jewish men. It is said graveside at the funeral, during the Shiva days, and throughout the entire year of mourning. One may appoint an agent to fulfill this practice.