What is a "wake"?

A wake is traditionally understood as a vigil held before a funeral. This gathering serves several important purposes: it allows family and friends to come together to mourn the deceased, share memories, and offer support to one another. The wake often includes a time for reflection, prayers, and sometimes informal sharing of stories about the person's life.

In many cultures, the wake may feature viewing of the body, but it is distinct from the actual funeral service, which typically takes place later. The Jewish tradition, for example, includes a shiva period that serves a similar purpose, providing a structured way for the community to come together in support of the bereaved.

The other choices do not accurately define a wake; while a funeral service, gathering of mourners, and preparation of the body are all related to the process of saying goodbye to someone who has passed away, they are different from the specific practice of holding a vigil prior to the funeral itself.