The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning

by Maurice Lamm

For over thirty years Jews have turned to Rabbi Maurice Lamm's classic work for direction and consolation. Selected by The New York Times as one of the ten best religious books of the year when it was first published in 1969, The Jewish Way in Death and Mourning leads the family and friends of the deceased through the most difficult chapter of life-from the moment of death through the funeral service, the burial, and the various periods of mourning.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Nonfiction, Reference, Religion, Death, Philosophy

318 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1972

Reviews

[Michael Lewyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a truly encyclopedic guide (at least from the perspective from someone who, like me, knew almost nothing about the subject before reading the book) to Jewish mourning practices. Brief summary: if a parent dies, be prepared to take a week off from everything, and don't shave. Try to avoid most forms of public entertainment for a year. (Whether these are realistic expectations for most readers, I can't say). If another relative dies, the restrictions are less severe.

Lamm also briefly summarizes the Jewish depiction of the afterlife. In his own words: [there is] historic near-unanimity of [Jewish] scholarly opinion on the fundamental belief [in the afterlife but] the practical details of immortality are ambiguous and vague. There is no formal eschatology in Judaism, only a traditional consensus that illuminates the way. . . God revives the righteous dead, while the wicked remain in the dust."

Lamm goes back and forth between justifying the halacha and neutrally describing it; I found his justifications persuasive in some instances, perhaps a bit overly aggressive at other times.

[Ari · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book practically useful, and sensitively written, at least in sections. Parts need updating due to cultural and technological changes, but overall this is an excellent resource. Recommended, for laity. Potentially better books as far as halachic references out there for rabbis who are looking for detailed references. (However, this is not a criticism, as Lamm states specifically who the book is intended for in the intro, and does a great job at sticking to his explanation)

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A timeless book that covers everything you need to know about Death and Mourning.
Every question is answered from the moment a loved dies to burial, shiva, sheloshim, the year and the unveiling. If I ever had a question my late mother would say “look it up”, Lamm provide answers to all things death and mourning in his mini encyclopedia. Sadly, it is an excellent educational read.

[Jordon Gyarmathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful comprehensive guide to Orthodox practices in the aftermath of Jewish death. Lamm provided detailed and specific rules and guidelines taken from the Torah, Talmud, and scholarly Jewish sources, explaining the ways of mourning proscribed to us by the Jewish tradition. I think this is a great resource and I hope it provides help to those who need it.

[Matthew Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely detailed to cover ever possible circumstance. I was looking for more of a book to learn about the topic out of interest, but this is more of a reference book for Rabbis. That said, it is very detailed and well done. It appears that the author really knows his stuff.

[Chrisanne · Rating 1 out of 5]

I think the topic is interesting but not my style of writing.

[John Minster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent overview of the Jewish approach to Death & Mourning. Doesn't overwhelm you with minute Halachot and provides thoughtful discussion around the pertinent themes.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great rendition of the history, philosophy, religion and emotions of a difficult subject which I read at the worst possible time.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

my rabbi gave me this. i'm glad there's a handbook.