The Chevra Kadisha, an Aramaic term meaning “holy society,” is a tradition that extends back more than 2,000 years. The task of those who belong to the Chevra Kadisha is among the most noble of Jewish acts of kindness that can be done -- for it can never be repaid. Therefore, the work of the Chevra Kadisha is called a chesed shel emet (a good deed of truth).
The primary function of the Chevra Kadisha is the preparation and burial of the deceased in accordance with halacha (Jewish law). The three major aspects that are involved are:
Shmira, guarding the body of the deceased from the time of death until the time of burial, in order to comfort the neshama (soul) before it goes up to heaven;
Tahara (purification), the washing and cleansing of the body and the ritual purification of immersing the body in the mikveh; and
Tachrichim, dressing the purified body in special clothes of simple, pure, white, hand-made cotton or linen garments that are identical for each Jew.
The Stamford Chevra Kadisha is responsible for the execution of this holy task in our Jewish community. Our volunteers provide this important service of making sure that Jewish individuals are properly prepared for burial and are attended to until internment. We also provide support for the families during the shiva by arranging prayer services, meals, and more.
The Stamford Chevra Kadisha has put together a brochure to explain some of the Chevra Kadisha customs and rituals. For more information about the Jewish burial and mourning process, please see the Links page.
