Purpose of Shiva

The primary purpose of the shiva tradition, or "sitting shiva," is to create an environment of comfort and community for mourners. Throughout the week-long shiva period, mourners come together in one family’s home to offer their condolences and support. Specific observances may vary depending on the Jewish community. 
 

Suggested Books:
A Time to Mourn, A Time to Comfort by Ron Wolfson 
When A Jew Dies: The Ethnography of a Bereaved Son by Samuel C Heilman
Jewish Insights on Death and Mourning Edited by Jack Riemer & Sherwin B. Nuland