In Judaism, death is not just a tragedy, even when it occurs early in life or through unfortunate circumstances. Death is a natural process. Jews believe that our deaths, like our lives, have meaning and are all part of God's plan. In addition, Jews have a firm belief in an afterlife, a world to come, where those who have lived a worthy life will be rewarded.

Mourning practices in Judaism are extensive, but they are not an expression of fear or distaste for death. Jewish practices relating to death and mourning have two purposes: to show respect for the dead, and to comfort the living, who will miss the deceased.