Yahrzeit

Yahrzeit (literally, “year time”) is the Yiddish word for “anniversary,” referring specifically to the Hebrew anniversary of the date of a person’s passing. Observed from nightfall to nightfall (like all Jewish dates), the yahrzeit is a special time to remember the departed and do good deeds for the merit of the soul, which ascends higher in heaven on this date.

Customs of observing Yahrzeit

- A candle should burn in every residence where the yahrzeit is observed. It should be kindled in the evening, burn for the entire next day until it goes out on its own. Special “yahrzeit candles” are sold at Jewish book and food stores.
- It is customary to have a Memorial prayer recited in the synagogue.
- Try to visit the cemetery and recite special prayers.
- You should try to attend a synagogue and say Kadish on the day of the yahrzeit, or at least ask somebody to say Kadish on behalf of your loved one. When saying Kadish you should have in mind person's Jewish name and his/her father's name
- Send donation in memory of your loved one.