A shomer stays with the deceased from death until burial, often reciting Tehillim (Psalms), to protect them and to comfort the soul in its transition.
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September 17, 2026
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A shomer is someone who stays with a person who has passed away, watching over them from the time of death until burial.
Historically, this was done for a very practical reason. Before modern refrigeration and secure facilities like funeral homes, someone needed to guard the deceased from animals and other dangers, protecting the body and preserving its dignity until burial.
There's also a deeper, spiritual reason. Jewish tradition teaches that the time between death and burial is a difficult transition for the soul as it separates from the body. The presence of another person provides comfort during that transition. Traditionally, the shomer spends this time reciting Tehillim (Psalms), adding prayer to that presence.
Both reasons come back to the same Jewish value: kavod hames, treating the person who has passed away with dignity, honor, and respect.
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