In ancient Hebrew culture, the act of closing the eyes of the deceased was a significant and symbolic gesture, often performed by the nearest of kin. This practice is rooted in the customs and traditions of the Israelites and is mentioned in various biblical narratives, reflecting the deep respect and care for the dead within the community.

The closing of the eyes is first alluded to in the book of Genesis. When Jacob, also known as Israel, was nearing death, he called his son Joseph to his side. In Genesis 46:4, God reassures Jacob, saying, "I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph’s own hand will close your eyes." This passage highlights the intimate role of the closest family member in attending to the deceased, signifying a final act of love and respect.

The act of closing the eyes of the dead is not merely a physical gesture but carries profound spiritual and emotional significance. It symbolizes the transition from life to death, acknowledging the end of earthly struggles and the hope of eternal rest. In the context of the Hebrew faith, it also reflects the belief in the sanctity of the body and the hope of resurrection.

In the New Testament, while the specific act of closing the eyes is not explicitly mentioned, the care for the dead is evident in the burial practices and the attention given to the deceased by their loved ones. For instance, in the account of Jesus raising Jairus' daughter from the dead, the presence of her family and their mourning underscores the communal and familial responsibility in dealing with death (Mark 5:38-42).

The practice of closing the eyes of the dead by the nearest of kin is a testament to the enduring bonds of family and the respect for the dignity of the individual, even in death. It serves as a reminder of the hope in God's promises and the belief in life beyond the grave, as articulated in the Christian faith.Genesis 46:4
I will go down with you into Egypt; and I will also surely bring you up again: and Joseph shall put his hand on your eyes.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... leaving a chasm which has never since closed up. ... beyond the provinces lying nearest
to the Dead Sea ... figure, with brown skins, black hair and eyes, who belonged ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
... of that we attain by the resurrection from the dead; yea, for ... and he took one of
his ribs, and closed up the ... in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

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