A newborn is immediately cleansed and washed when
it enters the world. And so it is when a person leaves the
world. After all, the soul is about to be reborn in a new
spiritual world. We also believe that eventually the body will
be resurrected in this world. A Tahara is performed by
members of the Chevra Kadisha (Burial Society).
This is a complete cleansing and dressing of the
body, performed according to Jewish Law and Custom. Prayers
are offered asking for the forgiveness of the deceased and for the
soul's eternal peace.
While Tahara requires that the body be
made as presentable as possible, nevertheless, embalming,
cosmeticizing or any attempts to create a life-like appearance
through artificial means are contrary to Jewish Law.
