The unveiling ceremony represents an important milestone in the Jewish mourning process, bringing family and friends together to dedicate the permanent marker that will memorialize their loved one for generations to come.
11-12 months
Traditional timing after burial
Source: Jewish custom
15-30 minutes
Typical ceremony length
Source: Traditional practice
Psalm 23
Most commonly recited psalm
Source: Jewish liturgy
"And Jacob set up a pillar upon her grave; this is the pillar of Rachel's grave to this day."
Genesis 35:20
Torah Source
Torah
When to Hold an Unveiling
Jewish tradition typically holds unveiling ceremonies 11-12 months after death, though customs vary by community. This timing allows the family to complete the formal year of mourning while the stone is being prepared.
"The unveiling ceremony marks the formal end of the mourning period and the beginning of eternal remembrance."
Rabbi Maurice Lamm
Rabbi, Author of 'The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning'
The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning
Planning the Ceremony
Most unveilings are brief, intimate gatherings of 15-30 minutes, including prayers, readings, and personal reflections. Contact your rabbi or cantor to officiate and guide the ceremony.
Key Hebrew Terms
מַצֵּבָה
The marker placed at a grave to memorialize the deceased.
הֲקָמַת מַצֵּבָה
The formal name for the unveiling ceremony.
Sources & References
Talmudic Sources
- Genesis 35:20. Jacob's pillar for Rachel
Halachic Sources
- Shulchan Aruch. Yoreh De'ah 364
Books & Publications
- Rabbi Maurice Lamm. The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning. Jonathan David Publishers