Question: What is the Jewish custom for the disposal of a spouse's belongings after death?
Dear Rabbi,
Please advise what the Jewish custom is for the disposal of a spouse's clothing and belongings after death.
Thanks, Robin
Answer: Dear Robin,
You ask about Jewish customs concerning the disposition of clothing belonging to a person after his or her death.
Jewish law forbids the destruction of useful clothing. Since it is a mitzvah to make charitable contributions (tzedakah) in honor of the dead, it would be most appropriate to donate the clothes to an organization that will provide them to the needy. Clothes may also be given to survivors or sold.
I hope this is helpful to you.
Best wishes,
Rabbi Jeffrey W. Goldwasser
