Ziv Hadeah - Hilchos Aveilus

A Comprehensive Guide to the Halachos of Yoreh Deah in the Home

• When and how is the mitzvah of kriah performed?
• What are the laws of an onein, and when does the period commence and end?
• When does shivah begin? What are the various halachos in the mourners’ house, and the halachos of shivah incumbent on the mourners?
• Which aspects of aveilus are permitted after shivah? What extends through the shloshim, and what is prohibited for twelve months for the mourner of a parent?
• What are the unique halachos of aveilus on Shabbos and Yom Tov?
• What are the customs for aliyas neshamah and yahrtzeit?

The period of time from when a close relative passes away through the aveilus period encompasses a vast amount of halachos, most of which are not studied on a regular basis and are thus not all that familiar. This can lead to much confusion, which is especially compounded by the mourner’s tremendous pain and sorrow as he grapples with his loss.

In Ziv Hadeah: Hilchos Aveilus, Rabbi Zev Hofstedter methodically explains the halachos and minhagim of aveilus in a clear, concise, and comprehensive manner, aiming to bring clarity in a time of confusion and guiding the mourner through this most difficult period.

From the unique status of an onein, to the mitzvos of hesped, levayah, and kevurah—all before aveilus even begins—to the numerous and detailed halachos of shivah, shloshim, and the twelve months for the loss of a parent, this sefer offers clarity and assurance in place of bewilderment and muddled misperceptions.

 By Rav Zev Hofstedter