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Hineni-Shmirah

Reading Psalms and other texts comforts and accompanies the soul between death and burial. Reading Psalms and other texts comforts and accompanies the soul between death and burial. Most shomrim (those who sit with the dead) read or chant Psalms, poems, songs, or other relevant texts (that might bring comfort). Some will speak gently to the newly departed soul, who is believed to be hovering near the body. Many Chevrah Kadisha (“holy society” – those who care for the dead) teams or funeral homes provide a “shmirah box” or cabinet containing a variety of reading materials for the hours spent sitting shmirah (the act of sitting with the dead). Just being present is comforting, so periods of silent contemplation and meditation are also acceptable, as long as the focus is on honoring the dead and being present for them. Learn more about Shmirah Learn more

In keeping with the historical practice of protecting the dead, today between death and burial family or community members read Psalms in the presence of the deceased.

To sooth the feelings of confusion of the deceased between death and burial, we read Psalms to ensure they are not left alone and to provide comfort.

Hovering near the body, the soul experiences disorientation and uncertainty between death and burial, so we read comforting words to the soul.