Jewish Funeral Questions, Answered

As soon as possible, usually within a day or two. Short delays are allowed for legal reasons, travel by close relatives, or to avoid Shabbat and holidays.

Yes. The service can be at your synagogue, at our chapel on Carroll Street, or graveside.

Yes. We serve Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, and unaffiliated families, and we can help you find a religious or non-religious officiant.

A taharah is the ritual washing and dressing of the deceased in white shrouds, performed by the Chevra Kadisha, a group of trained volunteers. Men care for men and women care for women. Read more in our guide to taharah and shmirah.

A shomer is a person who sits with the deceased from the time they arrive at the funeral home until they leave for the cemetery, reciting psalms so they are never alone. This is considered one of the most respected acts of kindness in Jewish tradition.

After the casket is lowered, family and friends shovel earth into the grave. The first shovelful is placed with the back of the shovel, a gesture of hesitation. Many families continue until the grave is filled.

Shiva is a seven-day mourning period that begins after the burial. The family gathers at home, sits on low chairs, and receives visitors. Read our full shiva guide for what to expect and how to prepare.

Kaddish is a prayer said at the graveside after burial and then daily by a first-degree mourner — a parent, sibling, spouse, or child — for 11 months. It does not mention death; it is a statement of faith. See Kaddish and Jewish prayers.

An unveiling is a short ceremony held about a year after the death, once the headstone or marker has been placed. The family gathers at the grave for prayers and a ceremonial uncovering of the monument.

Traditional Jewish law calls for burial and does not permit cremation. Reform Judaism encourages burial but recognizes that some families choose cremation. We serve every family without judgment. Read our guide to cremation and Jewish tradition.

A traditional Jewish funeral does not include a viewing. The casket remains closed, and the deceased is cared for through the taharah and watched over by a shomer rather than displayed. If your family has questions about this custom, call us and we will explain what to expect.

No. Flowers are not part of a traditional Jewish funeral. Many people send food to the shiva home or make a donation in memory of the person who died.

Dress modestly in dark colors, arrive on time, and follow the family’s lead. At the shiva house, let the mourners speak first.

Nothing is needed at the funeral itself. If you visit the shiva house afterward, food in disposable containers is a kind gift.

Yes. Everyone is welcome at the funeral and at the shiva house. Men may be asked to wear a kippah (skullcap) during the service; these are usually provided at the door.

Costs depend on the choices your family makes. Our General Price List is published online so you can review it before you call. We explain every cost before you decide, and we always offer the traditional option first.

We order certified copies of the death certificate for you as part of the arrangements. In DC, copies come from the DC Vital Records Division; in Maryland, from the Maryland Division of Vital Records.