Deuteronomy 14-16

The beginning of chapter 14 explains some pagan mourning ritual. It involves cutting and shaving. Though Moses didn't include the history behind this process he did make it clear that this was the practice of other people. God's people are to be different from other people. People of faith are to allow God to distinguish them from the pagans around them. Mourning the loss of a loved one provides a picture of the culture's deepest sorrow and fear. God's people should not mimick their actions because their loss is measured differently then those who have no hope.
Stuart