what is shiva in judaism

Shiva is a Hebrew word that means "seven" and refers to a seven-day period of formalized mourning by the immediate family of the deceased). The ritual is referred to as "sitting shiva" in English). Shiva begins immediately after the burial and concludes a short time after the morning service (Shacharit) on the seventh day. During the period of shiva, mourners remain at home, and friends and family visit those in mourning to give their condolences and provide comfort). The process formalizes the natural way an individual confronts and overcomes grief. Shiva allows for the individual to express their sorrow, discuss the loss of a loved one, and slowly reenter society). Shiva is observed in the home of the deceased, and if this is not possible, shiva may be marked in the home of an immediate family member or even a friend. It is customary to observe shiva for ones parent, sibling, child, or spouse. During shiva, a mourner is expected to ignore their own physical beauty, and mirrors are covered to remind the mourners that shiva is a reflection of loneliness and not about social acceptance. Shoes are removed, and the people sitting shiva sit on low benches as a sign of mourning. Shiva prayers are conducted at the shiva house each of the seven days, and those mourners present during these services will recite the Mourners Kaddish.