Shivah meaning

Shivah is a Jewish mourning period observed for seven days after the burial of a close relative, during which mourners reflect on the deceased and recite prayers.


Shivah definitions

Word backwards havihs
Part of speech The word "shivah" is a noun.
Syllabic division shi-vah
Plural The plural form of the word "shivah" is "shivahs."
Total letters 6
Vogais (2) i,a
Consonants (3) s,h,v

Shivah, also known as shiva, is a traditional Jewish mourning period that takes place after the burial of a close relative. This seven-day period of mourning is a time for the family to come together, share memories of the deceased, and receive comfort from friends and loved ones.

Meaning of Shivah

Shivah means "seven" in Hebrew, representing the seven days of mourning that follow the burial of a relative. During this time, mourners typically stay at home, refrain from work, and engage in specific mourning rituals.

Customs and Traditions

During shivah, mourners may sit on low stools, cover mirrors, and wear torn clothing as symbols of mourning. Friends and family often visit the mourners to offer support, recite prayers, and bring food to sustain them during this difficult time.

Importance of Community

Shivah emphasizes the importance of community and support during times of grief. By coming together to mourn and share memories of the deceased, family and friends can find comfort and healing in each other's presence.

It is important for those observing shivah to allow themselves to fully experience their emotions and memories, as this period of mourning plays a crucial role in the healing process. While shivah is a time of sadness and reflection, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the time we have with our loved ones.

Shivah is a sacred tradition that honors the memory of the deceased and provides a structured framework for the mourners to process their grief. By coming together in community, sharing stories, and offering support, those observing shivah can begin to find peace and healing in the midst of their loss.


Shivah Examples

  1. Sitting shivah is a traditional mourning practice in the Jewish faith.
  2. After the funeral, the family observed a week of shivah to honor their loved one.
  3. During shivah, it is customary for mourners to gather in a designated space to receive visitors.
  4. The rabbi offered words of comfort to those sitting shivah for the deceased.
  5. Friends and family brought food to the shivah house to support the mourners.
  6. The shivah period is a time for reflection and remembrance of the deceased.
  7. Some people choose to light a candle each night of shivah in memory of the departed.
  8. Visitors are encouraged to share stories and memories of the deceased during shivah.
  9. The community came together to support the family during their shivah period.
  10. The act of sitting shivah allows mourners to begin the healing process after a loss.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 17/05/2024 - 13:35:01