RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS JEWISH


Traditional Hasidic Jewish beliefs and traditions. (Based on a presentation by Mrs. Bronya Shaffer)


History and culture. Within the Jewish community there is a very broad spectrum of ethnic and political backgrounds, traditions, degrees of religious observance, and levels of acculturation.


It is important to recognize, however, that despite such differences all of Jewish life is governed by Jewish law. For the most part Jews, wherever they live, have incorporated or adapted to the majority culture in terms of behavior, profession, and non-sectarian social mores. Nonetheless, everything in Jewish life is governed by Jewish law. Life and death, their definitions, determinations, and attendant rituals are firmly rooted in Jewish law and tradition. This discussion will provide an overview and highlight beliefs and traditions concerning death. Today’s venue precludes the topic’s deserved scope; far more information is available and the reader is encouraged to visit the websites listed for a better understanding of Jewish practices in death and mourning.


Jewish law prescribes very particular procedures for dealing with a death, a process that begins the instant it is determined death has occurred, and that continues through sev- eral stages. In the body of Jewish law dealing with health, healing, illness, and death, there is a very definite and unambiguous line between life and death. Laws concerning the care of the dying are scrupulously observed. At the instant death is pronounced the focus of the law is immediately shifted to preserving the dignity of the deceased, and the process of preparation for burial. Since the definition of “‘life” in Jewish law is not contingent on quality or length of life, the procedures followed to ensure the utmost dignity and respect for the deceased are no different for an infant from that of an adult. Fetal death does have its specific qualifications. In every instance of fetal death, the mother, family, and professional providers involved should consult with an expert in the laws and traditions of fetal death practices.


General bereavement customs. All those present as death is occurring are encouraged to remain present until the pronouncement of death is made. This applies to family and friends; medical personnel, are exempt from this custom. The greatest respect accorded a soul is to actually watch over it as it passes from this life to the next. When the death is noted by medical personnel, attendant family or friends should be notified immediately. At that point, the relatives/friends of the deceased should be allowed to perform the duties incumbent upon them in preparation for the funeral and burial. Among these are closing the eyes of the deceased and covering the face. One of the more poignant traditions, even for infants, is that family and friends will ask forgiveness of the deceased for anything they may have done to cause pain or discomfort of any kind. This is one way of bringing closure to the relationship in this life.


Out of respect for the deceased, burial usually takes place within 24 hours. Arrangements are usually made by immediate family members but it is acceptable for family friends to handle this. Under circumstances that would not allow for family and/or friends to be present for an immediate funeral, the funeral may be delayed. This provides friends


48 VOICES FROM THE COMMUNITY: CROSS CULTURAL EXPRESSIONS OF GRIEF AT THE LOSS OF AN INFANT


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