This is because the mourning period must start as soon as possible so as not to prolong the process. However it can be delayed by a day or two especially should family and friends need to fly in to attend. The first week of mourning is called Shiva which literally means seven and it is this time when the family sits on a low bench and receive well wishes and condolences from others.
This is the crux of Judaism in that mitzvot need to be done in this world in order gain a closer relationship with the Creator. It is about separating the holy from the unholy or elevating the mundane for that matter to higher end. This is why religious Jews say blessings for almost about anything and this is also the reason why these are said before partaking of any food.
In total, a Jew must mourn for eleven months and this requires a man to go to Synagogue three times a day in order to say Kaddish which is a prayer in remembrance of the departed. In the mornings, it is custom to don a Talit or prayer shawl and to put on tefillin. This is done everyday in the life of a religious Jew but for those who do not do this ordinarily, find it comforting to do so during the period of mourning.
A mitzvah or action that brings one closer to God is done so that one may achieve a better result when a life is reviewed in the hereafter. That is why there are so many in the Jewish Religion with life focused around this goal. Doing things like donning a Talit and putting on Tefillin are one of those actions that strengthen a connection with a Supreme Being. Saying Brachot or blessings over food is also one that reminds Jews that everything comes from God alone and should be appreciated to its fullest.
Judaism speaks of this often and is fraught with Mitzvot or connections that a Jew does everyday in order to gain reward in the next life. This could be as simple as putting on Tefillin or phylacteries that a boy over the age of thirteen must do every day of his life. It is about making a connection to God.
By following the law or path of mourning, a Jew feels that they have done everything to mourn the loss in a positive way. By doing what is customary it allows one the chance of mourning to its fullest thereby making it easier to continue with life in a meaningful way. A Rabbi should be consulted when in doubt as to how to proceed or what the format will be of the burial itself.
It is a difficult time. One that is fulfilling if one knows one is doing it the right way. It is best to consult with a Rabbi if a mourner does not know what to do.
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