Often in our Nechama column, we share Jewish thoughts on the spiritual journey beyond grief. This month’s column will deal with the practical steps to be taken when someone dies in your presence.
Remain calm
Close the eyes and mouth of the deceased and straighten the arms and legs
Remove jewellery from the deceased
If possible, lift the deceased onto the floor with feet facing the door
Cover the whole body from head to toe with a sheet
Light a candle near the head of the deceased
Open the windows
Do not talk unnecessarily in the room
Do not eat, drink or smoke in the room
Contact the Chevra Kadisha – Mr Urwyn Treger on 082 570 8833
The Chevra Kadisha will return your call to make arrangements to pick up the body of the deceased
If the deceased was a male, give the Tallis of the deceased to the Chevra Kadisha when they arrive
Contact the family Rabbi and/or local Shul
Contact the family doctor or the doctor treating the patient in hospital
Contact the family members
Where possible, have a copy of the deceased’s Identity Book
When the Chevra Kadisha arrive be sure that they give you the Compassion Pack containing, amongst other items, a Handbook for Mourners, which will guide you regarding funeral arrangements and mourning practices
In case of a loved one passing away over Shabbat or Yom Tov, contact Doves on 081 755 6770
To download the full PDF of the March Cape Jewish Chronicle, click here
To visit Nechama’s website, click here
To read the most read article of last month, click here
