Jewish Funeral in Finland – Traditions and Practices
· 2 min read
Summary
A Jewish funeral in Finland follows millennia-old Jewish traditions. The burial is arranged as soon as possible after death and includes ritual washing, simple burial garments, and coffin burial. The Jewish community in Finland is small but active, and the Jewish congregations of Helsinki and Turku maintain their own cemeteries. The Burial Act 457/2003 and the Freedom of Religion Act 453/2003 safeguard the right to a funeral in accordance with one's religion.
Tahara and preparation
In Jewish tradition, preparing the deceased for burial is a sacred task. The chevra kadisha, or burial society, performs the tahara washing, in which the deceased is ritually washed and dressed in white tachrichin garments. A vigil (shmirah) is kept at the deceased's side until burial. The coffin is traditionally a simple wooden coffin without metal decorations, symbolising equality in death. The deceased is treated respectfully at every stage.
Funeral ceremony
The funeral ceremony, or levaya, is held at a synagogue, a cemetery chapel, or directly at the cemetery. The ceremony includes the reading of psalms, a hesped memorial speech recalling the deceased's life and virtues, and the el male rachamim prayer. The coffin is carried to the grave, and participants throw three shovelfuls of soil onto the coffin as a final sign of respect. The Kaddish prayer is recited at the conclusion. Flowers are not traditionally brought to Jewish funerals.
Shiva and mourning period
After the burial, the seven-day shiva mourning period begins. Close family gathers in one home, where they receive condolence visits. Traditional customs include sitting on low chairs, covering mirrors, and avoiding leather footwear. The community cares for the mourning family by bringing food, and an evening minyan prayer service is held at the mourners' home. After shiva, the shloshim — a thirty-day mourning period — follows, during which there is a gradual return to everyday life.
Practices in Finland
In Finland, Jewish funerals are handled through the Jewish congregation of Helsinki or Turku. The congregations have their own cemeteries where Jewish burial traditions are observed. Funeral arrangements begin by contacting the congregation, which coordinates the chevra kadisha, the rabbi, and practical arrangements. The Freedom of Religion Act 453/2003 safeguards the Jewish community's right to practise its own funeral customs within Finnish legislation.
Frequently asked questions
What is tahara?
Tahara is a Jewish ritual washing in which members of the chevra kadisha group wash and prepare the deceased for burial. The washing follows a specific ritual procedure, and the deceased is dressed in white cotton burial garments called tachrichin. Tahara symbolises purification and equality in death, as everyone is buried in the same simple garments regardless of wealth. The ritual is performed by persons of the same sex.
Does Jewish tradition accept cremation?
Traditionally, Judaism does not accept cremation but requires coffin burial. This is based on the belief in the sanctity of the body and the future resurrection. Orthodox Judaism prohibits cremation absolutely, while Reform and Conservative Judaism may take a more flexible approach. In Finland, the Jewish congregation follows the traditional practice and recommends coffin burial. The Burial Act 457/2003 guarantees the right to choose the burial method.
What does shiva mean?
Shiva is a Jewish seven-day mourning period that begins after the burial. During shiva, close family members spend time at home, receive condolence visits, and participate in daily prayer services. Traditional customs include sitting on low chairs, covering mirrors, and tearing a mourning garment (keria). The community brings food to the mourning family, and an evening minyan prayer service is held at the mourners' home. Shiva ends on the seventh day.
How does a Jewish funeral ceremony proceed?
The Jewish funeral ceremony, or levaya, is usually held at a synagogue or cemetery. The ceremony includes the reading of psalms, a hesped memorial speech, and the el male rachamim prayer. The coffin is carried to the grave, and family members and participants throw soil onto the grave. The Kaddish prayer is recited at the conclusion of the burial. The ceremony is typically simple and dignified. Flowers are not traditionally brought to Jewish funerals.
Can non-Jews attend a Jewish funeral?
Yes, non-Jews are welcome to attend Jewish funerals. It is good to know that flowers are not traditionally brought, and dress is subdued. Men cover their heads with a kippah, which is often provided at the service. Participants may throw soil onto the grave, which is a sign of respect. Condolences are expressed by saying 'May their memory be a blessing'. Respect the family's wishes and follow the example of others.
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