Rabbis Rap Custom of ‘visiting’ Body of Deceased at Funeral Chapels

The practice of “visitation” as apart of funeral arrangements, whether in the home of the deceased or in a funeral chapel, was labeled as “a flagrant violation of our tradition” in a statement issued here by the Massachusetts Board of Rabbis.

“We have always viewed the viewing of the body to be inappropriate and a dishonor to the departed,” declared the Board. “Only the presence of the immediate family with the departed is appropriate. The only proper time to make condolence calls is after the funeral and at the home where the mourning period is observed. We call upon the families of our congregations and the funeral directors to help us eliminate this practice of chapel visitation which is of recent and alien origin and in total disharmony with Jewish counsel on the consolation of mourners.”