Meaning of the Moon: A Kiddush Levana Digest

Familiarize yourself with the background of the various components that comprise the davening. The repetition of the Amida, the appropriate direction for prayer, who is fit to lead the service, the procedures of Krias HaTorah and much more.

Part III in a Series
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Table of Contents

This broad analysis of Birchas HaGomel takes a modern focus: Does a domestic flight over water trigger this blessing? An international one over land? What about a missed flight that crashes? A look at the basic laws and rational behind Gomel lays the foundation to determine when and why the blessing is required. (See also Thanking G-d for Goodness Part II)

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.

Piyutim are liturgical poems that are chanted during prayer primarily on the High Holidays, with some dating back many generations. What is their status in Jewish law? Must they all be recited or can they be omitted? What do we know about their origin and evolution? How important is it to adhere to local custom?

G-d’s benevolence is all around us. Every day we experience divine salvation whether we know it or not. But sometimes these events truly transcend the natural order for which we owe G-d an additional debt of gratitude.
What is the appropriate way to express thanks to G-d when experiencing deliverance from danger? Is it preferable to do so discreetly or is a public celebration in order? What is the basis for the common custom of inviting friends to participate in a Seudas Hoda’ah (feast of gratitude)?
Related: Thanking G-d for Goodness Parts I and II

Prayer has always been a pillar of the Jewish tradition. It is often wondered: if Judaism most values action, what is the significance of uttering liturgy composed thousands of years ago, several times a day?
(includes 30 pages of supplementary material)

Part I in a Series