Kriah, a tear made in the mourner’s clothing or on a ribbon attached to the clothing, is an external symbol of inner grief and mourning. It has been so considered since ancient times. In the Bible, Jacob, David, and Job, for example, reacted to reports of death be rending their garments.

Kriah, is usually made immediately preceding the start of the funeral service. It must be done for the Avel while the mourner is standing, to signify that we should confront sorrow directly.

For a parent, Kriah is on the left side, close to the heart. For all others, Kriah is on the right side. A benediction is recited by the mourner just before Kriah: Baruch attah Adenai eloheinu melech ha’olam, dayan hamet. “Praised are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, the righteous judge”. Like the mourner’s kaddish, this benediction is a reaffirmation of faith, and of the value of life, made at a time of intense sorrow and pain. Kriah should be visible throughout the period of shivah, but not on Shabbat.

If one learns of a relative’s death within thirty days after the fact, Kriah is required. Kriah is always required whenever one learns of a parent’s death, regardless of the length of time that has elapsed since the day of death.