Definition

Noun 1. A period of mourning in Judaism: "Shiva" (also spelled "shibah") is the seven-day period of intense mourning observed by immediate family members (parents, children, spouses, siblings) following the burial of a close relative.

Usage

• The noun "shiva" is used to refer to the mourning period itself.
• It is often used in the phrase "to sit shiva," which describes the traditional practice of mourners staying at home, receiving visitors, and observing specific rituals.
• Example:
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• "Shiva" as a proper noun: While "shiva" is a common noun referring to the practice, it is often capitalized ("Shiva") when referring specifically to the Jewish tradition.
• The customs of shiva: During shiva, mourners traditionally sit on low stools or the floor, cover mirrors, refrain from work and entertainment, and wear a torn garment or ribbon (kriah).

Variants and Related Words

• Shiva (noun): The more common transliteration of the Hebrew word (שִׁבְעָה), meaning "seven." This is the standard spelling.
• Shivah: An alternative transliteration.
• Shibah: A less common transliteration, as in the target word.
• Shloshim (noun): The thirty-day period of mourning that follows shiva.
• Avelut (noun): The Hebrew term for mourning in general.

Synonyms

• Bereavement: The state of having lost a loved one (a more general term).
• Mourning period: A descriptive phrase for the time of grief.

Related Phrases

• To sit shiva: The active observance of the seven-day mourning ritual.
  • Example: Friends and relatives will visit the house to comfort those who are sitting shiva.
• To make a shiva call: To visit a house of mourning during the shiva period to offer comfort.
  • Example: It is a mitzvah (good deed) to make a shiva call.

Noun

1. (Judaism) a period of seven days of mourning after the death of close relative
   • the family is sitting shiva