Image: A Jewish cemetery. Note the pebbles left on monuments. Photo by Darelle, via pixabay.com.
“Should I send flowers to a Jewish funeral?”
Many readers search that question, or something like it. The simple answer is: NO. Flowers are not part of Jewish funeral traditions.
Instead of flowers, Jews appreciate a memorial donation to a charity or social justice organization. Often the family will name a particular fund or charity for memorial donations. If there is no charity named, then donate to the organization of your choice. The amount of the donation is unimportant; give according to your means.
Most organizations will mail a card to the family letting them know of the memorial gift. Give them a name and address in addition to the name of the deceased.
Why no flowers?
- First, it is Jewish tradition, going back millennia.
- Second, there is a strong feeling in our tradition that in death people should all be treated equally. Having flowers at the funeral or on the grave would mean that wealthier folk would have a bigger “show” and poorer people would be shamed.
- Third, a donation to a fund that will relieve suffering or make the world better is a more lasting memorial than flowers.
What else can one do to honor the dead?
- Attend the funeral.
- Visit the family at shiva. (See 5 Tips for Shiva Visits)
- Visit the grave and leave a pebble on it as a mark that a visitor was there.
- Attend any events in honor of the dead.
- Call or visit the mourners periodically during the first year of mourning.
For more about Jewish funerals, see Jewish Funeral Etiquette: 10 Tips.
For more about supporting mourners, see Jewish Social Skills: Death & Mourning
I love the idea of making a donation to a charity! I think I will try and remember that for my own funeral.
May your own funeral be a long way off!
Thanks for clearing this confusion about sending flower to Jewish funeral. Me to had this confusion so I searched and landed here. Thanks for sharing this useful advice.
I’m glad it answered your questions, Christy! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!
Such helpful words of advice, thank you.
Thank you so much for this advice. I’m not Jewish, but my very dear friend passed away today. Although we’ve been friends for over 30 years, it didn’t cross my mind that flowers wouldn’t be appreciated by the family. Our different faiths were never a barrier to our friendship and she very kindly sent flowers when members of my family passed away. Sadly, because of the Corona virus nobody can attend the funeral and there can be no Shiva, but thanks to your advice I will make a donation to a Jewish charity. I’m very grateful for this advice and pray that you will stay safe and well x