Jewish Tradition of Laying Stones at Grave Site
Different religions feature different traditions when it comes to remembering and honoring the deceased. Instead of leaving flowers at the grave site of loved ones, Jewish tradition calls for leaving stones or pebbles.
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History
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The exact history behind the tradition of leaving stones or pebbles is not entirely understood. Some members of the Jewish community say that the tradition dates back to several instances featured in Jewish scripture.
Function
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Many Jewish scholars say that leaving a stone on the grave site stems from the ancient tradition of building the grave site. Placing a stone on the grave site allows mourners to not only remember the one they lost, but also keeps them in touch with Jewish tradition.
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The Past
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Jews in the past did not erect tombstones or grave makers, but simply left stones over the entire grave site. Since it is not possible to be buried without a tombstone today, leaving a stone connects Jews to their history.
Theories/Speculation
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Many Jewish scholars say that leaving stones on the grave site is a way to show how many people remember and visit the deceased. As more and more stones accumulate, family members can see how many people come to pay homage to the ones they have lost.
Considerations
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Leaving stones on the grave also has a very spiritual meaning for Jewish people. When picking the stone up, they are reminded of all the things that the deceased has given them, and when they put it down, it reminds them that they cannot take the person with them physically, but only in their heart and mind.
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