The Kaddish is a Jewish prayer traditionally recited in memory of the deceased. It is believed to assist in the aliyah, or spiritual ascent, of the neshama (soul) of the departed. The connection between Kaddish and a neshama’s aliyah lies at the very heart of Jewish mourning customs.
Kaddish does not mention death; instead, it praises God and asks for peace. However, its association with mourning dates back to rabbinic times when it was said after studying Torah in honor of a deceased teacher. Over time this evolved into saying Kaddish for any loved one who has passed away.
But why would praising God help a soul ascend? In Jewish thought, our actions in this world can impact souls in the next world. When we do good deeds or pray on behalf of those who have passed away, we can elevate their souls closer to God. This concept is known as ‘iluy neshama’, literally meaning ‘elevation of soul’.
When someone says Kaddish for a loved one who has passed away, they are essentially performing an act of kindness on behalf of that person’s soul. The recitation becomes an expression not only grief but also faith – faith that even though our loved ones may be physically gone from us, their souls continue to exist and can still benefit from our actions here on earth.
It’s important to note that while Kaddish aids in a neshama’s aliyah, it isn’t solely responsible for it. According to Jewish belief, every individual possesses free will and makes choices during their lifetime that determine their place in the World-to-Come. The deeds performed during one’s life primarily influence one’s spiritual standing after death.
However, once someone passes away they no longer have opportunities to perform mitzvot (commandments) themselves so their loved ones perform acts such as saying Kaddish to aid their soul’s ascent. This is especially significant during the first year following death, a period of intense spiritual transition for the neshama.
The practice of saying Kaddish also provides comfort for those left behind. It gives mourners a way to honor their loved ones and feel connected to them. The communal response required in recitation of Kaddish means that mourners are surrounded by community support at a time when they may feel most alone.
In sum, while it is not directly mentioned in the prayer itself, there is a profound connection between Kaddish and a neshama’s aliyah. By praising God on behalf of the departed, we can help elevate their souls and find out more solace in our faith and community during times of mourning.