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
See Verses Found in Dictionary
And when you fast, be not like the hypocrites, of a sad countenance; for they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to fast. I tell you truly, they have their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head, and wash your face, read more. that you may not appear to men to fast, but to your Father in secret; and your Father who sees in secret shall reward you.
And they came to the house of the synagogue ruler, and saw the tumult, and the people weeping and lamenting much.
Rejoice with the rejoicing, weep with the weeping.
Comfort one another, therefore, with these words.
for the Lamb who is in the midst of the throne shall feed them and lead them to fountains of the waters of life, and God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes.