Halachot and Customs
Is It Permissible to Pray at Another Grave After a Funeral?
Question
Is it permissible, after a funeral has concluded, to visit and pray at the grave of my father, grandfather, friend, etc.? I recall seeing a discussion on this topic but cannot find it now. I believe it is permitted, but I would like to confirm to be certain. Thank you for your answer.
Answer
Greetings, There is an important halachic issue concerning the prohibition of praying at any grave while a burial is taking place in that cemetery, since the deceased who are present there become disturbed and judgments are aroused — it is not a time of mercy or favor. However, once the burial has concluded, it is permitted to pray at any other grave without concern. Sources: The Admor of Monkach, of blessed memory, in his book Divrei Torah (edition 5745, section 8), quoting his father, the gaon and tzaddik known as the Baal Darkei Teshuvah, who in turn cited his holy ancestors from Dinov, explains that it is customary in their family not to visit or pray at the gravesite or tent of a tzaddik at the time a deceased person is being buried in that cemetery. He brings explicit evidence for this from the holy Zohar (Parshat Naso, folio 136b). Wishing you Bsorot Tovot, Hillel Meirs
עברית
