Authors: Reuven Hammer
ISBN-13: 9780805210224, ISBN-10: 0805210229
Format: Paperback
Publisher: Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group
Date Published: January 1995
Edition: Reprint
Reuven Hammer earned his rabbinical ordination and a doctorate in theology at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He lives and teaches in Jerusalem.
This engaging and informative book provides an introduction to the liturgy of the Siddur--the Jewish prayerbook. More than a "how-to" guide, this resource deals with basic issues for the modern worshiper, the historial compilation of the Siddur, and much more.
Hammer, a rabbi who now lives and teaches in Jerusalem, clearly discusses various aspects of Jewish prayer: its forms, history, prayerbooks, and daily order. He covers both Sabbath and holiday prayers, as well as prayers of mourning. Presenting Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform options, he offers practical advice about private prayer and about choosing a synagogue and prayerbook. He addresses issues of sexist language and the exclusion of women from many traditional formulas. Throughout, he encourages the development of deep spirituality. Highly recommended both for Jews and non-Jews.
Preface | ||
1 | What Is Prayer? | 3 |
2 | Using the Liturgy | 27 |
3 | Prayer in Early Israel | 39 |
4 | The Origins of the Synagogue | 60 |
5 | The Creation of the Siddur | 75 |
6 | The Daily Order of Prayer | 100 |
7 | Preparation for Prayer | 104 |
8 | The Shema | 121 |
9 | The Amida | 156 |
10 | Concluding Prayers | 198 |
11 | Sabbath and Holidays | 212 |
12 | Garments of Prayer: Tallit and Tefillin | 250 |
13 | The Blessing After Meals | 263 |
14 | Rites of Mourning | 275 |
15 | Getting Started | 289 |
Notes | 303 | |
Glossary | 325 | |
Bibliography | 331 | |
Index | 337 |