Significance of Chevra Kadisha

In response to the article in last month’s edition, I would like to offer some insights from my participation in the RI Chevra Kadisha (the “Chevra”), of which I have been a member for some 20 years. Our local Chevra has been selflessly serving the local Jewish community for over 40 years. It is vibrant and fully functioning. Every deceased person cared for and prepared by the existing Chevra is treated in the same loving, respectful, dignified and timely manner.

Some of the laws and other long-standing traditions of preparing Jews after death date back to the Second Temple period (597 BCE – 70 CE). Performing the ceremonial actions or “rituals” correctly is certainly very important. Beyond that, however, the entire process is very much predicated upon the belief that the soul exists beyond its life in the body. Ideally and historically, the members of the Chevra share these beliefs and translate them into mindful intentions and prayers as we do our best to aid the soul’s journey after death. There is a traditional Jewish belief in a future resurrection, when the body and soul will be reunited at the End of Days. Essentially, we are preparing the deceased for the future life, not just for burial.

For thousands of years, the holy society of men and women who prepare our fellow Jews for burial has consisted of those observant of the Torah’s commandments. When one explores the mystical sources, there are many reasons why this is the case. Participation in the Chevra does feel holy and special, however, the sole focus is necessarily on the well-being, honor and journey of the deceased in our care.

I pray that the sanctity and holiness of this mitzvah remain of the highest order and that all Jews in our area have the opportunity to be cared for by those who fully understand the gravity and significance of the Chevra Kadisha’s role.

Elissa Felder

Providence, RI