Understanding Jewish Headstone Symbols

There is no shortage of headstone iconography on Jewish cemeteries–especially the older ones.  Many monuments are grand and imposing. Others are modest and simple.  I like to refer to cemeteries as “museums of memories” because the symbolism in essence, reflects the character of the founding community and gives one a window into those whose eternal rest is etched in the poetry in stone.

Some of the more familiar headstone symbols one finds on a Jewish cemetery are Stars of David, menorahs, and eternal flames. However, upon closer examination or by strolling through older Jewish cemeteries, you will see an array of headstone symbols, each with its own meaning. The artistic elements found on cemeteries are not always Jewish in origin but rather funerary or universal headstone symbols such as obelisks, columns with draped urns, acorns, spheres–all symbols of eternal life.

There are monuments such as this one (right), the Tree of Life cut down–symbolic of a person who died too soon.

There are even some monuments with photographs–porcelain inlays–allowing us to see what some individuals looked like.  And then there are distinctly Jewish symbols that speak of our observance to the Torah: Broken candles or snuffed out wicks in menorahs symbolizing that a woman is released of her obligation to kindle Shabbat candles.

The above symbols of the Kohayn and Levi are from the Levitical line. These were the High Priests who officiated over the sacrificial system during Temple days in ancient Israel. Today their former duties are acknowledged in synagogues with the first aliyah during the Torah service.

And finally, there are poetic words etched in stone that speak of an exemplary character; how deeply a life touched others and how much they will be missed but, never forgotten.

There is so much to see and learn just by visiting a Jewish cemetery. All these and much more are explained when you sign up for our Cemeteries Are For The Living educational tours.

Feel free to comment here and share some of your observations or ask questions regarding headstone iconography on Jewish cemeteries.

Cemeteries Are For the Living Educational Tours

This category is dedicated to our highly successful educational program geared to synagogue youth, parents, educators, and adult education programs. Many of you have participated in our Cemeteries Are For The Living tours and the feedback we have been receiving has been tremendous. Our tours are interactive, informative, and even fun! There is so much to learn just from visiting a Jewish cemetery.

What started in 2006 with only synagogue youth classes, has expanded to adult education programs, interfaith groups, conversion classes, and schools and colleges outside the Jewish community.

After participating in a Cemeteries Are For the Living tour, participants come away with a greater understanding of the historical significance of Jewish cemeteries, but also a deeper appreciation for the organizations and communities who founded them. Participants learn historical information, the meaning and origins of various headstone symbols and customs related to Jewish burial and mourning.

We welcome your comments in this category, and if you have already participated in a Cemeteries Are for the Living tour, please let us hear from you. What did you learn? What was the most interesting fact you discovered about Jewish cemeteries? Post a comment, a suggestion—let others know why they should schedule a tour for their group.