Taking Leave

Our Evolving Relationship with the Departed

Is death is painful for the soul? Does the soul of the deceased retain any attachment to this world, to its body, or to its loved ones? This lesson discusses the Jewish view on, and some of the traditions associated with, the moment of passing, the preparation of the body for burial, the funeral, interment, and grave visitation. All these inform us about the nature of the soul’s continuing relationship with its life in this world and those that it loves.