shivah etymology

Etymology:

• Hebrew: שבעה (sheva) meaning "seven"

Meaning:

• A seven-day mourning period observed by Jewish people after the death of a close relative (spouse, parent, sibling, or child).

Origin:

The concept of shivah originates from the Torah (Genesis 50:10), which states that the people of Egypt mourned the death of Joseph for "seven days." The Talmud (Moed Katan 28a) later codified the practice of shivah as a seven-day period of mourning for Jewish people.

Purpose and Practices:

Shivah is a time for:

• Grief and mourning
• Refraining from certain activities (e.g., work, bathing, wearing leather shoes)
• Reading comforting texts and prayers
• Receiving visitors who offer condolences and support

Traditional Customs:

• The shivah is held in the home of the deceased's immediate family.
• Mourners cover mirrors and light a memorial candle called a "ner neshama" ("soul candle").
• Visitors are encouraged to avoid speaking to the mourners unless spoken to first.
• Mourners are typically served meals and offered comfort.
• The shivah ends on the seventh day after the burial (or, if the burial takes place after sunset, on the eighth day).

shivah relate terms

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• shivah

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