In Mandaean tradition, the gathering that takes place after a burial — where family and community come together to share food — is known as a “Lofani” (لوفاني) or sometimes referred to as “Loofania.”
Meaning and Purpose
Lofani literally means meal of remembrance or food of blessing.
It is an offering meal held for the soul of the deceased, meant to bring spiritual benefit and peace to the soul (known as nišimta).
It also serves as a communal act of comfort and solidarity, where relatives, friends, and community members gather to remember the person and offer prayers.
When It Happens
Traditionally, a Lofani is held immediately after the burial.
In some communities, additional Lofanis may be held on the 3rd, 7th, and 40th day after death — similar to memorial practices in other ancient Near Eastern traditions.
What Happens
Ritual food such as pihta (sacred bread) and mambuha (water) are blessed by priests (tarmidas or ganzibras).
Community members share food, often simple vegetarian dishes, as an act of remembrance.
