Comments on Rabbi Jason Miller - Blog: Sitting Shiva for Traditional Shiva

As creator of http://ShivaConnect.com, I believe t...

2012-01-23T14:42:03.944-05:00

As creator of http://ShivaConnect.com, I believe that technology can help "connect" mourners to Judaism, family, friends and community. The purpose of sitting shiva is not only to honor the deceased, but to allow mourners to feel grief, express sadness, and seek comfort in the practice of bereavement rituals. The internet can be a useful tool for information, education and outreach. Our "Shiva Registry" enables quick and convenient communication- helping well wishers learn how they can offer support and express their condolences. As people rely more and more on electronic communication, I see many benefits in using modern technology to assist with, hopefully not attempt to replace, Jewish traditions and customs.

Another problem with moving it to a public space i...

2012-01-17T08:38:23.906-05:00

Another problem with moving it to a public space is what are you going to do when no one is there? You can't lie down and take a nap or something.
I also wrote about a virtual shiva here: http://www.amotherinisrael.com/social-media-facebook-shiva-mourning/
Shiva is one of the most valuable and significant Jewish rituals. Considering it doesn't usually affect people very often I find it sad that there is less interest in observing it.

As someone who has had to sit shiva, and that shiv...

2012-01-15T11:59:24.488-05:00

As someone who has had to sit shiva, and that shiva got cut off 24 hours after the funeral due to Passover. I can tell you that there are times I am relieved that I didn't have to go through a week of that difficult process. But there are also times I feel robbed that I didn't get to have the full closure that Judaism affords us. That being said. The Jewish community here in Detroit and Windsor rallied around our family to make the shiva process as easy as possible. I believe this happens with most affiliated families. Also I dont think a neutral place would be comfortable to sit shiva. There is a something nice about being in your house, with your stuff...

Well written post Rabbi.