The Unveiling

It is a religious obligation to place a marker at the grave of a loved one; an unveiling (Hakamas Hamatzeivah) is a graveside religious ceremony marking the formal setting of a loved one’s monument at the cemetery. This ritual dates back to the time of our ancestors when Yaakov Avinu (Jacob) erected a monument for his wife Rachel (Genesis 35:20).

According to Jewish custom, the monument may be set any time at or after the Shiva. Most American Jews hold the unveiling service close to the end of the year of mourning. Custom dictates a brief ceremony, with family and friends present.

Generally, at the gravesite before the unveiling Psalms 33, 16, 17, 72, 91, 104, 130, and 119 are traditionally recited. This is followed by some brief words about the deceased, the actual unveiling of the stone, the Kel Maleh Rachamim (the Memorial Prayer), and the Kaddish.

If you do not have access to a Rabbi, please feel free to contact Kehila Monuments. We will refer you to a Rabbi who will meet your family’s special needs, try to answer your questions, and advise you.