Tahara

Before the funeral, the body of the deceased is prepared for burial by the Chevra Kadisha in accordance with Jewish law and tradition.  This includes ritually washing and dressing the deceased while certain prayers are recited and placing the body in a kosher casket.  Men attend to men, and women to women.

Chevra Kadisha

The Jewish Burial Society

Caring for the deceased is one of the greatest mitzvot in the Torah and a task reserved for the pious and righteous people in each community. Many cities, especially large metropolitan areas, have dedicated teams of people who form the Chevra Kadisha (a holy brotherhood), also known as the Jewish Burial Society. The members of the Chevra Kadisha, cleanse purify and prepare the body for burial.