The Synagogue Council of America announced today the adoption on behalf of its Reform, Orthodox and Conservative constituents of a guide to funeral practices. The statement emphasized the traditional aspects of “simplicity and equality” which have marked Jewish funerals in the past and which is in keeping with the positions of the six affiliated congregational and rabbinical organizations.
The statement condemned “the lavishness, lack of solemnity and other violations of sacred Jewish tradition occurring in the American Jewish community in connection with funerals and the subsequent mourning period.” The SCA urged on all Jews practices which would reflect the fact that “a funeral is a profoundly religious occasion.”
The statement proposed that the funeral should be simple, reflecting dignity and sanctity. Caskets should be closed because “public viewing is inconsistent with Jewish traditions” and caskets “should not be ostentatious.” During the traditional period of mourning, Shivah, visitors should not expect nor contribute to the creation of festive hospitality. “Charitable contributions,” the statement emphasized, “are a more appropriate testimonial to the memory of the deceased than are gifts.”
The SCA said that the national synagogue organizations would conduct “an on-going program” to educate affiliated congregations and membership concerning these funeral standards. The SCA also said that the national synagogue groups would urge their lay leadership “to develop programs designed to eliminate objectionable practices wherever they exist.”
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