1/ I want to take a moment to remind everyone that RBG was Jewish. Jewish rituals and beliefs surrounding death are very different than Christian rituals, and it is vital that, in this moment, we don’t erase RBG’s Jewishness.

2/ There is no heaven in Judaism. Please stop saying that RBG is going to heaven. Jews believe in the cycle of coming from the earth, and returning to the earth.

3/ In lieu of flowers, consider leaving stones at memorials for RBG. In Jewish practice, we choose to leave stones instead because, unlike flowers, they are eternal and never die. It symbolizes the eternal life of the person’s spirit.

4/ Jewish funerals happen very quickly, often within 1-3 days of the person’s passing (though this period will be extended for RBG because it is Shabbat, and we don’t hold funerals on Shabbat). This is part of k’vod hamet, or honoring the dead.

5/ Tonight also marks the start of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year. It is one of the holiest days of the year for Jews, and someone who passes on it is said to be a tzeddik - someone of great righteousness. This death will hit especially hard for other Jews tonight.

6/ Finally, in Judaism when someone passes, we don’t say “may they Rest In Peace.” Instead, we say “may their memory be for a blessing.” Consider using this language as you discuss RBG’s passing, and may you cherish the blessing of her memory.