GEN1618 The principle of k’vod ha-meit [respect for the dead] dictates that a body not be tampered with, and nothing done to speed or slow down the body’s natural decomposition.  Thus, Jewish law opposes embalming.  Yet the Torah does speak of the embalming of Jacob Genesis 50:2-3 and Joseph [this verse].  Embalming was widely practiced in Egypt and was, in any case, necessary in the case of Jacob since the process of mourning for him in Egypt, followed by his burial in Canaan, occupied about four months [Genesis 50:3-10]. Leaving a body unburied for so long a period would lead to terrible decay and odors.   Nevertheless, the process of embalming, which involves puncturing organs, an incision in a major artery and vein, and the pumping of formaldehyde into the artery, is regarded as abhorrent to the Jewish notion of respect for the dead.  Thus, when a body is shipped to Israel, in lieu of embalming, the Israeli government sanctions using a lightweight wooden casket lined with aluminum and sometimes preserved with ice packs.  TELVOL1:99-100