Part of Everendium's Faith, Culture & Traditions guides.
Orthodox Jewish Funeral and Mourning Customs
Reviewed by Everendium Editorial Team · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Quick answer
Orthodox Jewish practice generally follows traditional Jewish law most strictly: burial (never cremation), as soon as possible after death, without embalming, in a simple wooden casket, followed by a structured shiva and extended mourning period observed closely by the immediate family.
Orthodox Jewish practice generally follows traditional Jewish burial and mourning law most closely and consistently among the major movements within Judaism.
Burial, without exception
Orthodox Jewish law does not permit cremation under any circumstances — burial is required, generally as soon as possible after death, ideally within 24 hours where feasible (Shabbat and major holidays can delay this).
No embalming or alteration to the body
Orthodox practice avoids embalming and other alterations to the body, reflecting Jewish law’s emphasis on returning the body to the earth naturally and promptly. A chevra kadisha (burial society) handles ritual washing and dressing in simple linen shrouds, and burial takes place in a simple, unadorned wooden casket.
Shiva observed closely
Shiva, the seven-day mourning period, is often observed with particular consistency in Orthodox communities — including sitting on low stools, covering mirrors, refraining from regular work, and specific daily prayer services (often requiring a minyan, a quorum of ten) held in the mourning home.
Gender-specific customs
Some specific mourning customs and prayer obligations differ by gender within traditional Orthodox practice, reflecting broader distinctions in Orthodox Jewish religious life more generally. A rabbi can address what specifically applies to a particular family’s situation and community.
What to expect if you’re attending
Modest, conservative dress is expected. If visiting during shiva, following the lead of the mourning family — rather than initiating a typical greeting — remains the same across Jewish movements, and applies here as well.
Observance varies by specific community and family, even within Orthodox Judaism. Everendium encourages consulting a rabbi for guidance specific to your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Is cremation ever accepted in Orthodox Judaism?+
No — traditional Jewish law, as generally followed in Orthodox practice, does not permit cremation under any circumstances. Burial is required.
Is embalming used in Orthodox Jewish burial?+
Generally no — Orthodox practice avoids embalming and other alterations to the body, in keeping with Jewish law's emphasis on returning the body to the earth in its natural state as quickly as possible.
How strictly is shiva observed?+
Often quite strictly in Orthodox communities — including sitting on low stools, covering mirrors, refraining from work, and specific prayer services held in the shiva home, generally with more consistency across families than in less traditionally observant communities.
Are men and women's mourning roles different in Orthodox practice?+
Some specific customs and prayer obligations differ by gender in traditional Orthodox practice, reflecting broader distinctions in Orthodox Jewish religious life — a rabbi can address specifics relevant to a particular family's observance.
Sources
Related glossary terms
Make this easier for your family.
Add what you've just read to your Final Day Plan — free, and saved for later.