🕯️ Jewish Mourning Traditions

1. Who Observes Aveilus

Mourning is halachically required for seven immediate relatives: Father, Mother, Son, Daughter, Brother, Sister, and Spouse.

2. The Stages of Mourning

• Aninus (Death to Burial): The focus is entirely on the funeral. The mourner (Onen) is exempt from all positive mitzvos like Tefillin.
• Shiva (First 7 Days): Intense mourning. We sit low, avoid leather shoes, and receive visitors to comfort us (Nichum Aveilim).
• Shloshim (First 30 Days): Transitioning back to society. No haircuts, music, or joyous celebrations.
• The 12 Months: Specifically for a parent. We recite Kaddish and avoid public celebrations.

3. Yahrtzeit & Remembrance

On the anniversary of the passing (Hebrew date):

• Recite the Mourner’s Kaddish.
• Light a Ner Neshama (24-hour memorial candle).
• Sponsor Mishnayos learning or give Tzedakah in their merit.

4. Nichum Aveilim (Comforting)

The mitzvah is to support the mourner. We say:

"HaMakom yenachem eschem b'soch she'ar aveilei Tzion v'Yerushalayim."

5. Matzeivah & Unveiling

It is customary to place a monument (Matzeivah) at the gravesite, usually within the first year, to mark the final resting place and honor the neshama.

6. Halachic Guidance

This guide provides a general overview. Because every situation is unique, you should always consult with a Rav from The Rabbinic Institute or your local community for specific halachic rulings.