This archive report was first published on 22 September 2019.
On September 22, 2019, the Jewish community in Nairobi will gather to bid farewell to Tob Cohen, the Dutch businessman whose life was cut short in a tragic incident. Cohen's body was discovered in a septic tank in his compound, and he will be laid to rest in a Jewish cemetery along Wangari Maathai Road.
According to Jewish customs, the burial ceremony will be a private affair, with only family members in attendance. The ceremony will begin with prayers and biblical passages, followed by the reading of the eulogy. The mourners will then chant prayers, and the casket will be taken to the graveside slowly, acknowledging the long journey ahead.
As per Jewish tradition, the mourners will dress in black and dress modestly to show respect to the deceased. No music will be allowed during the occasion. The family members will also make ritualistic tears on their outer garments, with Cohen's parents, if present, tearing the left side of their garments, just above the heart.
It is unclear if Cohen's widow, Sarah Wairimu, will attend the burial, as her application to witness his final send-off will be heard the next morning. The burial ceremony will take place at 1:30 pm, and the spot where Cohen will be interred is marked number 184.
