I learned a tremendous amount that night. We began by asking forgiveness of the deceased for anything done or about to be done. Then while fully respecting her privacy in every way, her body was washed from head to toe. Her hair was combed, her nails cleaned and a soft linen shroud, similar to that worn by every other Jewish woman was put on. Prayers were said both within and outside the room and the woman was gently laid in a casket.
Jewish tradition encourages equality of humankind.
As we enter the world with nothing, so too do we depart in the same way. Her casket was a simple pine box, identical to those of other members of the community who predeceased her. The family, at this extremely vulnerable period of time, had no decisions to make with respect to clothing, casket, or burial arrangements. This is all taken care of by the Chevra Kadisha . As is our custom not to leave the woman alone until the time of the funeral, the Chevra Kadisha also arranged for people to stay with the body.