Yahrtzeit

According to the Hebrew calendar Yahrtzeit (in Jiddish “time (of) year”) is a tradition during which the family remembers its dead relatives. Among Ladino Jews this tradition is known as nahala. The family members observe the Yahrtzeit by performing religious rituals three times a day.

The mourner's version of the Kaddish prayer is traditionally recited three times a day. This is done as part of morning prayer (Shacharit), afternoon prayer (Mincha) and evening prayer (Maariv). The family members also light a special Yahrtzeit candle. It must burn 24 hours.

Yahrtzeit candle

Some people fast on the Yahrtzeit of their parents. There are those who think that not consuming wine and meat is enough. Certain synagogues mention their dead members on one of walls. A special light is turned on the Yahrtzeit of each person. All the lights are lit during the Yizkor (“remembrance”) service.