Jewish Prayer
Respect in the Synagogue
Rabbinic restrictions on behavior in the synagogue reveal continuing tension between ordinary Jews' sense of being at home and at ease there, and the desire of rabbis to set it apart as a sacred place.
Rashi and Rabbenu Tam: Two Sets of Tefillin
Evidence from Qumran shows that the medieval debate about the order of biblical passages in tefillin has ancient roots.
Tefillin: Spiritual Significance
The details of this precept, using powerful symbols of allegiance to divine law and of membership in the Jewish religious community, have been subject to many interpretations.
Tallit (The Prayer Shawl)
The corner fringes on this ritual garment remind the wearer of all the commandments in the Torah.
The Tallit: Spiritual Significance
The commandment to attach fringes to garments was invested with deep theological meaning.
What Does It Mean to Be a Rabbi?
The traditional rabbinate harks back to ancient practice, but is an evolving institution.
What Is A Cantor (Hazzan or Chazan)?
What these singing clergy members do and how they are trained.
Men’s Head Covering in Synagogue: Reform Judaism’s Views
Changing ideas about whether men should wear a kippah (skullcap) during prayer reflect development and maturation of American Reform attitudes toward tradition.