סוד עניית אמן. פרק א

The beautiful Veyiten Lecha prayer customarily recited after Havdallah assembles a wide array of Torah passages. What do they mean and why do we say it?

What defines a “dangerous scenario” for which one must recite birkas hagomel? This paper addresses the questions and challenges introduced by air travel, and defines the types of illnesses and levels of recovery that require the gomel blessing.

The recitation of Kaddish is a central Jewish mourning rite. Mourners recite Kaddish for eleven months following the death of a loved one. What is the meaning of the prayer and the details of its observance? Why is it recited for specifically eleven months?

Joining the congregation in their recital of kedusha is important on many levels. But what should one do if he is still reciting the silent Amida? Or just about to begin? When a worshiper’s private Amida collides with the recital of Kedusha by the congregation, what is the appropriate response?

A minyan of seniors, a common occurrence at old age homes, can be challenging. What does Jewish law say about seniors sleeping during the prayers, or seniors who are unable or unwilling to actively participate in the services?

The Shul generally davens Nusach Ashkenaz and their Chabad Rav has been serving as shliach tzibur for Ne’ilah for over thirty years. Instead of repeating the Yud Gimmel Midos seven times, he only recites them three times, and has done so for over three decades. Has the Rabbi deviated from a well-established norm dating back over a millennium, or is the congregation blissfully unaware of the genesis of this practice? This paper highlights all available original sources on the matter and allows the reader to draw his own conclusion.