Question 1

What is a Shiva?

Accepted Answer

In Judaism, the initial process of mourning is called Shiva.  Shiva is meant to create an environment where friends, family and the community can comfort the mourners.     During this time, family members traditionally gather in one home to receive visitors. Shiva can last anywhere between one and seven days, starting immediately after the funeral, but some people choose to observe fewer days of Shiva. Also note that mourning is suspended on Shabbat, so there are no Shiva visits from Friday afternoon until night has fallen on Saturday night.   Some mourners will have designated times that they will be sitting Shiva and some mourners will have an open Shiva house.   You can usually find this information within the obituary, funeral home or synagogue.

Question 2

What can I expect at Shiva?

Accepted Answer

When you walk into a Shiva home, you need not worry about saying the “right” thing.  People will be sitting with the mourners, chatting.   In the morning, and again in the evening, there may be prayer services, held in the Shiva house instead of in the synagogue for the deceased.

Question 3

What should I bring to Shiva?

Accepted Answer

No gifts are expected at a Shiva call. This is not at all expected, so don’t stress if you come empty-handed. Kosher cookies, cakes, candies, are all welcome at Shiva as long as they are easy to serve. Monetary donations are welcome to provide meals for the family during the time of mourning. A person is usually designated to accept these donations.

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