Funeral rites

Muslims funerals were kept simple. The coffin was placed on a panel with 4 handles at the ends, and carried on the shoulders of designated persons. In other words, a hearse was not needed. Finally, the procession included relatives, friends, and in many cases, professional criers.

For Jewish people a hearse was used; as far as I remember, it was not a car, but an unadorned carriage drawn by 2 horses. The coffin was placed inside; and the family followed it. There was no music or any other kind of pomp.

Both Muslims and Jews shared two religious requirements: If at all possible, the body has to be buried within 24 hours; and elaborate funerals were frowned upon.

Christians did not have the same restrictions. The sky was the limit. It all depended on the status, means, and wishes of the deceased. The description of an average funeral follows.

A large glass enclosed carriage drawn by 4 horses served as the hearse. The horses were covered with colorful blankets. Ahead of the horses, there were at least 2 attendants, splendidly attired; ditto for the back of the carriage. Family and friends then followed. Right behind them were musicians playing the chosen (by the deceased and/or the family) funeral march. Two favorite pieces: Chopin, Marche Funebre; and the Funeral March by Mendelssohn from the Incidental Music For A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

If at all practical, the aforementioned tent was erected by Muslims and Christians. Jews received condolences in their home during the 7 days of the Shiva (mourning).

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