What type of shrouds are mandated for Jewish burial?
All Jews are buried in simple white linen shrouds regardless of social status. Silk or gold shrouds are explicitly forbidden — even for a nasi — as haughtiness and emulation of gentile practice.
Question 2
What is the halachic status of a goseis (person in death throes)?
A goseis is fully alive in the eyes of halacha. One who touches him to hasten death is considered a murderer. We do not close his eyes, tie his jaw, or bring a coffin into the room while he lives.
Question 3
From which mitzvot is an onen (pre-burial mourner) exempt?
An onen whose dead has not yet been buried is exempt from all positive commandments of the Torah — Shema, prayer, tefillin, and more. His full attention must be on arranging the burial.
Question 4
When is it permitted to delay a burial overnight?
Overnight delay violates a negative commandment — unless the delay is for the deceased's honor, such as waiting for a shroud, coffin, eulogist, or relatives to arrive from afar.
Question 5
What are the rules for an onen on Shabbat?
On Shabbat, the public nature of the day suspends aninut. The onen reclines, eats meat, drinks wine, says blessings, is counted for a zimun, and observes all mitzvot — except marital relations.