Reference: Mourning Customs
Hastings
The Oriental expression of grief has a twofold relationship. Towards God it is marked by silent and reverent submission symbolized by placing the hand on the mouth. 'The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away' (Job 1:21); 'I was dumb
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And when you fast, do not put on a sad countenance, as the hypocrites do; for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear to men to be fasting. Verily, I say to you, They have their reward. But do you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face; read more. that you may not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.
And he came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw the tumult, and those who were weeping and wailing greatly.
So, then, comfort one another with these words.
For the Lamb that is in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and will lead them to living fountains of water: and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.