Jewish ObituaryLoss of a Spouse
Support for widows and widowers navigating life after loss.
- Ask whether meetings are facilitated
- Ask whether counselors are licensed
- Ask how online groups are moderated
Compassionate support
You are not alone
Grief is a journey no one should walk alone. Whether you are mourning a recent loss or remembering a loved one from years past, we are here to support you with compassion, understanding, and Jewish wisdom.
24/7 crisis support available
If you are in crisis or need immediate help, compassionate support is available right now.
Specialized support
Find support by type of loss
Loss of a Parent
Guidance for adults mourning the loss of a mother or father.
- Ask what the workshop covers
- Review Jewish mourning traditions
- Ask whether family sessions are offered
Loss of a Child
Compassionate support for parents facing unimaginable loss.
- Ask about specialized clinical care
- Ask how parent groups are led
- Use memorial resources carefully
Loss of a Sibling
Support for those mourning a brother or sister.
- Ask whether sibling groups are active
- Ask about family counseling options
- Review practical healing resources
Jewish traditions
Jewish wisdom on grief
In Jewish tradition, mourning is a sacred process guided by ancient wisdom. From the immediate grief of shiva to the annual remembrance of yahrzeit, our customs provide structure, meaning, and comfort during life’s most difficult moments.
Understanding Shiva
The seven-day mourning period: its biblical origins, Talmudic sources, denominational practices, customs, and how to make a shiva call.
Kaddish: The Mourner’s Prayer
The Mourner’s Kaddish in full, with transliteration, historical origins, and guidance on when and how it is recited.
Yahrzeit Explained
Commemorating a loved one’s Hebrew-calendar anniversary of death, with the candle, kaddish, and customs of remembrance.
Hebrew-English Mourning Glossary
A reference glossary of the Hebrew and English terms used across Jewish mourning, funerals, and remembrance.
Jewish Funeral Traditions
A complete guide to Jewish funeral customs, from preparation and tahara through burial, with sources from Torah and Talmud.
What Is a Chevra Kadisha?
The "holy society" that prepares the deceased for burial with dignity, and the sacred work of tahara.
Professional guidance
Professional support services
Jewish Family Services Network
Network of local agencies providing professional counseling and bereavement support. Find your local JFS office for services in your area.
Individual CounselingGroup TherapyFamily Support
National Alliance for Children's Grief
Resources and support for children, teens, and families dealing with loss.
Youth ProgramsParent GuidanceSchool Resources
Our House Grief Support Center
Free grief support services for children and adults in Los Angeles.
Support GroupsWorkshopsOnline Resources
“The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.”
We are here to help
Need support right now?
Reach out with any question about Jewish mourning customs or support resources. If you need immediate crisis support, the 988 line is available 24/7.