19. Mourning during Chol Hamoed

Mourning:

Eulogy: Eulogies are forbidden to be given during Chol Hamoed, and hence one does not eulogize the Niftar. One may not even recite words of praise for the Niftar, as doing so can lead to eulogizing him. However, one may say words of Torah to arouse the public. Some Poskim lean to permit the Aveilim of the Niftar to recite a Hesped, although practically this is not the accepted ruling.

Is one to have a Seudas Havrah on Chol Hamoed after the body was buried? Yes. However, one does not serve the mourners the accustomed foods of mourning for this meal, such as eggs or lentils, and rather regular foods, such as coffee and cake/Matzah, are to be served.  Some say that the mourners are to be served meat and wine. Some Poskim rule that there is no prohibition for the mourners to eat their own food for the Seudas Havrah and thus they do not have to be fed by others. Nevertheless, it is proper for others to give them food for this meal.

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