In Hebrew, K’riah means “tear.” A person in mourning tears their clothing or a black ribbon, usually while standing at the funeral to symbolize strength in the face of grief. A cut in the mourner’s clothing or ribbon is made on the left side, closest to the heart, when mourning a parent. It is done on the right when mourning other immediate relatives.

As the tear is made, the following prayer is recited:
Baruch atah Adonai Eloheinu melech ha’olam dayan ha’emet.
Blessed art thou our Lord, Ruler of the Universe, Judge of Truth.

It is customary to wear the torn garment or ribbon all seven days of Shiva, except during Shabbat and festival days. Some people wear it for the first 30 days of mourning (sh’loshim).