what is shiva jewish

Shiva in Judaism refers to the week-long mourning period for first-degree relatives, during which the immediate family of the deceased observes formalized mourning. The word "shiva" comes from the Hebrew word "shivah," meaning "seven," signifying the seven-day length of this period. It is a time for mourners to express their sorrow, discuss the loss of a loved one, and slowly reenter society. Friends and family visit those in mourning to provide comfort and condolences. Shiva is observed in the home of the deceased or an immediate family member, and it is a time for everyone to share stories about the deceased and begin the healing process. The period of shiva is intended to see mourners through the first days of intense grief and disorientation, and it is a carefully ritualized structure for dealing with grief in Judaism).