The purpose of Jewish funeral and burial requirements is both to honor the deceased and to provide comfort to the mourners. The requirements include ritual cleansing of the body, clothing the body in white shrouds and prayer shawl, male only, and the use of a simple wooden coffin. The funeral service is simple and prescribed by Jewish law. A rabbi should be consulted before autopsy. Jews consider physicians as instruments through whom God can effect a cure and an obligation to be healed.
Medical treatment is viewed as one means to help achieve good health.
Throughout its venerable history, Judaism has come into contact with many peoples, religions, and creeds.