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The anniversary of a death is called yahrzeit in Yiddish. The Sages tell us that each year, on this day, the deceased is once again judged by the heavenly court. This is because even after a person’s life has ended, their influence has not. If it turns out the children they left behind are sinning, their soul should be punished for this, as they did not educate them properly. In contrast, if the children are elevating themselves by doing good deeds, the deceased must have educated them properly, and their memory continues to have a positive effect. The soul is uplifted and receives heavenly reward.
Therefore, on the yahrzeit, it is customary for children to study more Torah than usual, do good deeds, give charity, and say Kaddish. Some fast on this day as an expression of repentance. Those who find fasting difficult may give charity instead. There used to be a custom to light a 24-hour candle in the synagogue on a yahrzeit, to enhance the services by providing additional light for the prayers. Nowadays, when synagogues are illuminated with electric lights, there is not much point to this. Nevertheless, as a commemoration of the old custom, some light a yahrzeit candle at home. What is truly important though is to donate money to maintain the synagogue or to help the poor. When possible, the children should visit the grave on the yahrzeit. If it is not too difficult, other relatives should join them as well.
