Can I get some info on meaning or purpose of attending a levayah of someone you knew? Like what's the idea behind it?
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The idea is Kavod for the niftar. There's a gemara (mishna?) about different levels of kavod depending on what type of personhe was ranging from a minyan to an entire parade. I forgot where the gemara is. If I remember. I'll put an answer.– YDKSep 21, 2010 at 4:38
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Are you (or Gershon) referring to M'gila 28b, where the question of the exact cause of attendees to come to a funeral is addressed regarding funerals of great people and their relatives?– WAFSep 21, 2010 at 23:29
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1 Answer
There are 2 purposes to attend a funeral.
1- For the relatives of the dead person. By going to the funeral you show that you are mourning with them their loss. It gives them strength to move forward when they see that others care.
2- It also gives honor to the dead person. The larger the crowd the more honor it brings.
In the morning prayers it is among the items that you get rewarded in this world and in the world to come "Ochel Pairoseihem BoOlam Hazeh Vhakeren Kayemes Lolam Habah". It is called a Chesed Shel Emes as there is no hope of repayment from the dead person.
answered Sep 21, 2010 at 16:37
