Q&A: A Eulogy When Eulogizing Is Forbidden
A Eulogy When Eulogizing Is Forbidden
Question
Hello Rabbi,
Very often people arrive at a funeral on a day when, according to Jewish law, eulogizing is forbidden. Then someone gets up to eulogize, usually the first speaker or the person leading the ceremony, and says that although today one does not give eulogies, we will say a few words of parting. Or that we will say words of awakening and encouragement. And then they say exactly the same eulogy they would have given on a day when eulogizing is permitted.
What does the Rabbi think about this?
Answer
Indeed, this is a common phenomenon. In principle, one should make sure to say things that do not arouse crying, but rather words of parting and public inspiration. If that is what is done, then it seems that it is permitted as a matter of law. Especially since for a great person they do give eulogies even on these days, and the question is who qualifies as a great person. In short, it is not recommended, but it is accepted practice, and in my view it is not such a big deal.