Ask the director
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QUESTION: Why do people leave small stones on top of the monuments at the cemetery?
C.L., Providence
Dear C.L.,
As with many customs in Judaism, there are several answers to this question. The pebbles and stones left on top of monuments and markers serve as a visible sign that people have visited and remembered the deceased person.
Flowers may blow away, but stones remain. Also, historically, mounds of stones were used in the desert to mark the grave and this has carried over.
Questions are welcomed and encouraged. Please send questions to: ShalomChapel@aol.com or by mail to Ask the Director, c/o Shalom Memorial Chapel, 1100 New London Ave., Cranston, R.I. 02920.
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