Important Practices and Customs
- The Sabbath begins on Friday afternoon, about an hour before dusk, and lasts for approximately 25 hours. Observant Jews abstain from work, using electronics, driving, and other activities during this time.
- Jewish men typically wear a head covering, and married women may wear a head covering or wig in public. Non-Jews are not required to cover their heads in a synagogue, but it is respectful to do so.
- In the event of a life-threatening situation, Jewish law allows for most other religious laws to be disregarded to save a life.
- When a Jewish person dies, the funeral must take place as soon as possible, sometimes on the same day. Afterward, the immediate family sits Shiva (a seven-day mourning period).
- Many observant Jews will not touch members of the opposite sex outside of their immediate family, even to shake hands. It's best to wait for them to offer a handshake if they observe this practice.
- Observant Jews only eat kosher food, which adheres to dietary laws. Meat and dairy products are never served or eaten together, and strict Jews avoid eating food cooked with equipment used for non-kosher food.
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