How long does shiva last?
Seven days, counted from the burial. The day of the burial is day one, and many communities end shiva on the morning of the seventh day. Shabbat counts as one of the seven, but there is no public mourning on it. Some Jewish holidays shorten or end shiva early. More in what is shiva and Shabbat during shiva.
Some families sit for fewer days. If you are unsure, ask whoever is organizing.
When should the gift arrive?
As early in the week as you can. The first days bring the most visitors, and food that arrives early gets used all week. A gift that keeps, like dried fruit and nuts, is useful whichever day it lands.
How long does delivery take?
- Orders placed by 10am ET on a business day ship the same day. Later orders ship the next business day.
- We do not ship on Saturdays, Sundays, federal holidays or Jewish holidays.
- You see the arrival date for the family's ZIP before you pay. Nothing arrives same-day.
- 2-Day and Overnight shipping are available at extra cost.
Where should I send it?
To the house where the family is sitting shiva, which is not always their own home. Ask the organizer, the shul or a family friend for the address.
If the funeral is tomorrow
A tree planted in Israel is the one gift that arrives straight away: its certificate is emailed, usually within minutes, to you and the family if you wish.
If you missed shiva
It is not too late. A gift during shloshim, the first thirty days, often arrives when the visitors have gone and the house is quiet. A tree for a yahrzeit, shloshim or unveiling is another way to mark it.
Next: what to write on the card.