Boulder Jewish News Arts, Culture, Events, Lifestyles, Holidays, Synagogues, Education
One of the most sacred tasks in our lives is the care of our loved ones after death. Judaism has developed sensitive and caring practices for our dead throughout the centuries. Taharah is one of these. The Chevra Kadisha comes together with a sacred intent to prepare the body of a deceased Jew for burial through a ritual of washing and dressing that is accompanied by inspirational readings. With respect, honor, and comfort for the deceased and the living the taharah seeks to maintain the dignity of the dead while easing the grief of mourners. (hineni.jadeinfo.org)
As our population ages we need more volunteers to help in this sacred act of caring for the deceased. Currently most of the members of the taharah “team” are between 65 and 80 years old. We need younger men to come forward to help with this Mitzvah. “As we come forth, so shall we return” (Ecclesiastes 5:14).
We hope some of you will find great interest and meaning in being part of the Chevra Kadisha, whether it is for sitting Shmirah (reading of prayers or psalms in the presence of the deceased-closed casket) or participating in the taharah rituals. Please feel free to contact any of us to discuss it more, and/or if you would like to observe a taharah or learn more about Shmirah. Here you can find more detailed explanations- hineni.jadeinfo.org
Please stop by the Chevra Kadisha booth at the Jewish Festival on June 9th. Richard Light, an educator and Rabbi on Jewish death practices (creator of the hineni.jadeinfo.org website) will be at the booth and will also be giving a talk Monday night June 10th at the JCC on the same subject. Feel free to share this post with anyone affiliated or not with a Synagogue or a Jewish place of worship.
Please join us so we can continue to offer this sacred act of kindness in our community… now and in the future. Contact us if you have questions.
