National Board Of Examination (NBE) Arts Practice Exam

In the Jewish Faith, a coffin or casket made entirely of wood and containing no metal parts is known as a(n):

1. Mogen

2. Aron

3. Kever

4. Cantor

The correct answer is: Aron

In the Jewish faith, a coffin or casket made entirely of wood and containing no metal parts is referred to as an "Aron." This term is significant because it aligns with the Jewish principles regarding burial and respect for the deceased. The Aron is designed to fulfill the religious obligation of returning the body to the earth in its most natural state, which is why it is constructed without metal, as metal is considered to hinder the decomposition process. The design of an Aron reflects the values of simplicity and humility, as well as the Jewish belief in the sanctity of the human body. This practice is rooted in biblical teachings and has been followed in Jewish burial customs for centuries, emphasizing the importance of treating the deceased with dignity. In contrast, the other terms do not refer specifically to a type of casket: "Mogen" often refers to a protective shield or symbol in Jewish tradition, "Kever" refers to a grave, and "Cantor" is associated with a person who leads prayers or chants in a synagogue. None of these options describe a wooden coffin without metal, which reinforces the correctness of identifying the Aron as the appropriate choice.