In 2023, prayer occupies a very important place within Judaism. Orthodox Jews pray three times a day: morning, afternoon and evening. Prayer has replaced Temple worship and sacrifices. The Temple was destroyed in the year 70 and so it is no longer possible to make sacrifices. The times of the prayers correspond to the times of the sacrifices. Jewish prayer is G-d’s way of telling the Jewish people, ,speak to Me and I will listen., Three times a day, Jews pray to G-d, thanking Him, praising Him and beseeching Him for personal requests. It is often held in the synagogue, but also in private homes, at airports or in offices. Prayer is a time to step back and reflect.
- What is the Jewish prayer?
- How often is prayer done?
- Formal prayers; no personal prayers
- The Shema
- The Amida (Shemone-esre)
- Siddur
- Machzor
- Characteristics of prayer in synagogue
- Chassidim
- Other prayers
- Footnote
What is the Jewish prayer?
At its most basic level, prayer expresses Jews’ faith in G-d. Jews realize that they are dependent on G-d’s bounty. He controls everything and has the ability to free the Jews from their hardships. That is why Jews ask G-d for help through prayer. The Torah refers to prayer as ‘the service of the heart’, an act imbued with love and reverence. According to Chabad philosophy, prayer is actually our primary means of connecting our consciousness to the divine, an island in time when our souls are set free to soar to heavenly heights. Such a prayer leaves an indelible refinement effect on the whole day.
How often is prayer done?
Jews pray three times a day at fixed times: in the morning (instituted by patriarch Abraham – the Shacharite prayer), in the afternoon (instituted by patriarch Isaac – the Mincha prayer) and in the evening (instituted by patriarch Jacob – the Ma’ ariev prayer). The three prayers are centered around the Amida prayer, a series of nineteen blessings. The Shema is also recited during the morning and evening prayers. Selected Psalms, blessings and prayers complete the picture.
The rabbis determined the daily prayers to correspond with the two daily Temple sacrifices, one in the morning and one in the afternoon , and the burning of the limbs of the noon sacrifice, which would continue all night. This explains why on days like Shabbat, when extra sacrifices were offered, Jews had an extra (Musaf) prayer.
Formal prayers; no personal prayers
Unlike Christianity, all prayers among the Jews are fixed in form prayers, although this was not the case in the beginning. 1 This is important because thoughts can wander during your own prayer. They are also not personal prayers. It is about prayers for all Jews; the Jewish community is central. The texts are in the plural. That is why Jews usually pray together in the synagogue. In fact, a synagogue is considered a miniature replica of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, where G-d’s presence was widespread. Participating with others also gives each individual the power of the community and their collective deeds and achievements.
The Shema
Many prayers include the ‘shema’, the Jewish confession of faith found in Deuteronomy 6:4 with the subsequent passages Deuteronomy 6:5-9, 11:13-21 and Numbers 15:37-41.
In addition, many Psalms are found in the prayers.
The Amida (Shemone-esre)
A very important prayer is the Amida (Shemone-esre, the 18 praises). The amida should be recited standing, while turning one’s face towards Jerusalem (towards the east). When one is in Jerusalem, one faces the Temple Mount. Some Jews have special signs with the word mizrach (east) on the wall to indicate the direction. This prayer is said three times a day. On Shabbat and some holidays, along with some additions, even four or five times.
The prayer consists of 18 praises in which G-d is praised for His omnipotence, holiness and faithfulness towards the people of Israel and for His great deeds and miracles performed for Israel. It also contains intercessions and everyday needs. It also begs for the restoration of David’s kingship and the rebuilding of the Temple and its worship.
Siddur
The prayers are printed in a prayer book, the siddur. Here you will find all the regular prayers that are said during the week or on Shabbat and holidays.
Machzor
People often have separate prayer books for the holidays. Such a book is called a Machzor (cycle). The prayers are written in Hebrew, some in Aramaic.
Characteristics of prayer in synagogue
- Everyone prays out loud, often accompanied by a chazzan (cantor).
- The prayers are sung. The chazzan sets the tone.
- There is movement back and forth during the prayers.
Chassidim
Among the Hasidim, prayer is seen as the most important religious practice: a mystical encounter with God himself. The intention of the prayer is the most important.
Other prayers
There are many other prayers:
- Kaddish prayer – the Jewish prayer for the deceased
- prayers for the Royal House, the State of Israel,
- prayers for well-being of soldiers and fallen Israel and WWII
- prayers for after meals
- travel prayers
- etc.
Footnote
1 Until the time of Ezra, each person would pray according to his ability and eloquence. Someone so inclined would offer many long prayers and requests and someone less articulate would pray less. Some would pray once a day; others, several times. Ezra, along with the Men of the Great Assembly, instituted the prayer routine that had already been practiced and formalized by a select few.