A Siddur is a Jewish prayer book that contains a set order of daily prayers. The word 'siddur' itself originates from the Hebrew root 's-d-r', meaning 'order'.

What is the plural form of the word Siddur?

The plural form of Siddur is 'siddurim'.

Besides 'Siddur', what other terms are used for Jewish prayer books in different communities?

Other terms for prayer books include 'tefillot' among Sephardi Jews, 'tefillah' among German Jews, and 'tiklal' among Yemenite Jews.

What are the earliest components of Jewish prayer books mentioned in the Torah?

The earliest components of Jewish prayer books found within the Torah are the Shema Yisrael passage and the Priestly Blessing.

What is the Amidah prayer, and what is its traditional origin?

The Amidah, also known as the Shemoneh Esreh, is a central Jewish prayer consisting of nineteen blessings. Tradition ascribes its compilation to the Great Assembly during the time of Ezra, near the end of the biblical period.

Why is the name 'Shemoneh Esreh' considered a historical anachronism?

The name 'Shemoneh Esreh' literally translates to 'eighteen,' but it is considered a historical anachronism because the prayer now contains nineteen blessings.

According to the Talmud, where and under whose leadership was a formal version of the Amidah adopted after the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem?

The Talmud states that a formal version of the Amidah was adopted at a rabbinical council in Yavne, under the leadership of Gamaliel II and his colleagues, following the destruction of the Temple.

When did the precise wording and order of the Amidah prayers become standardized?

While the general ideas and opening/closing lines of the Amidah were fixed relatively early, the precise wording and order were not immediately standardized. It varied by locale and only began to be formally fixed several centuries after the destruction of the Temple, with texts being nearly fixed by the Middle Ages.

When was the Siddur first printed, and when did mass distribution begin?

The Siddur was first printed by the Soncino family in Italy as early as 1486. However, it was not until 1865 that a Siddur was first mass-distributed.

When did Siddurim start appearing in vernacular languages, and when was the first English translation published?

Siddurim began appearing in vernacular languages as early as 1538. The first English translation was published in London in 1738, attributed to the pseudonym Gamaliel ben Pedahzur.

What foundational texts are incorporated into Jewish prayer services?

Readings from the Torah (the five books of Moses) and the Nevi'im (Prophets) are integral parts of Jewish prayer services. Over time, various Jewish sages also added specific prayers and hymns, particularly for festivals.

Who compiled the earliest known codification of the prayerbook, and what was it called?

The earliest existing codification of the prayerbook was drawn up by Amram ben Sheshna of Sura Academy in Babylonia around 850 CE, and it is known as Seder Rav 'Amram.

What contribution did Saadia Gaon make to the development of the Siddur?

About fifty years after Amram ben Sheshna, Saadia Gaon also composed a siddur, which was notable for having its rubrical (instructional) matter written in Judeo-Arabic.

How did Maimonides' work influence Yemenite liturgy?

Maimonides' formulation of prayers, appended to his legal code Mishneh Torah, serves as the basis for the Yemenite liturgy and has also influenced other Jewish prayer traditions.

What is the difference between a 'weekday siddur' and a 'Siddur Shalem'?

A weekday siddur typically contains only prayers for weekdays. A 'Siddur Shalem,' meaning 'complete siddur,' includes prayers for weekdays, Shabbat, and the three major Biblical festivals: Sukkot, Shavuot, and Pesach.

What is a Mahzor, and when is it used?

A Mahzor is a special type of prayer book developed for the Yamim Noraim, or High Holy Days (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur). It includes the standard liturgy along with numerous piyyutim, which are Hebrew liturgical poems. The term Mahzor can also refer to prayer books for the three pilgrimage festivals.

What is the typical content of a special siddur used on Tisha b'Av?

The special siddur used on Tisha b'Av usually contains the text of the Book of Lamentations, the Torah and Haftarah readings for that day, and Kinnot, which are specific mournful piyyutim.

What is the practice in some Jewish traditions regarding Tisha b'Av siddurim after the fast concludes?

In some traditions, after the Tisha b'Av fast ends, the Kinot siddurim are placed in a geniza (a repository for sacred texts), reflecting a hope for the future rebuilding of the Temple and the cessation of the fast day.

Piyyutim are Hebrew liturgical poems that are often incorporated into Jewish prayer books, particularly Mahzorim used for holidays, adding a poetic and devotional layer to the services.

What does 'Nusach' refer to in the context of Jewish prayer?

Nusach refers to the specific rite or custom of prayer within different Jewish communities, encompassing variations in the wording, order, and sometimes the inclusion of piyyutim.

What are some of the major Jewish rites or traditions mentioned in relation to siddurim?

The text mentions various rites including Sephardic (Spanish and Portuguese, Mizrachim), Teimani (Yemenite), Hasidic, Ashkenazic (German, Polish), Bené Roma (Italkim), Romaniote (Greek), Persian, Kurdish, Bukharian, Georgian, Mountain Jewish, Ethiopian, and Cochin-Jewish liturgies.

How do some Oriental Sephardic and Hasidic prayer books differ from the Nusach Ashkenaz in a specific blessing related to wisdom?

Some Oriental Sephardic and Hasidic prayer books include a blessing for 'wisdom (chochmah), understanding (binah), and knowledge (daat),' referencing Kabbalistic concepts. In contrast, Nusach Ashkenaz and some other Sephardic versions use the older wording for 'knowledge, understanding, and reason'.

What is a notable characteristic of some Sephardic rites concerning Kabbalistic elements?

Certain Sephardic rites are overtly kabbalistic, often reflecting the teachings of Isaac Luria. This can be seen in the treatment of the Tetragrammaton and the inclusion of divine names within its letters.

How does the Ashkenazic rite incorporate Kabbalistic elements, and how are they typically presented?

The Ashkenazic rite includes Kabbalistic elements like acrostics and allusions to the Sefirot, but these are generally subtle and not easily apparent without prior knowledge of Kabbalah.

Which poem is often sung by Ashkenazi congregations during the Sabbath Musaf service, and what is done with the ark during its recitation?

The poem Anim Zemiroth is frequently sung by Ashkenazi congregations before concluding the Sabbath Musaf service, and the ark is opened during its recitation.

Why do many Hasidic groups adopt liturgies with Sephardic influences, such as Nusach Sefard or Nusach Ari?

Many Hasidic groups adopt liturgies with Sephardic influences to align with the prayer customs and interpretations of Rabbi Isaac Luria (Ari HaKadosh), whom they believe followed Kabbalah and Halacha more faithfully.

Who compiled an authoritative siddur in 1803 for Hasidic use, and what principles guided its compilation?

Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi compiled an authoritative siddur in 1803 after reviewing sixty different versions. His compilation aimed for compliance with Hebrew grammar, Jewish law, and Kabbalah, and is known as Nusach Ari among Lubavitch Hasidim.

Who are some of the significant historical figures known for writing piyyutim?

Important writers of piyyutim mentioned include Jose ben Jose, Yannai, Eleazar Kalir, Saadia Gaon, Joseph ibn Abitur, ibn Gabirol, Moses ibn Ezra, Abraham ibn Ezra, Judah ha-Levi, Moses ben Nahman, Isaac Luria, Shimon bar Yitzchak, and Meir bar Yitzchak.

Did Isaac Luria have a preference for Sephardic piyyutim?

No, Isaac Luria primarily recited early piyyutim, such as those by Eleazar Kalir, and expressed a dislike for Sephardic piyyutim.

What is the 'Rodelheim Siddur', and who is credited with its editing?

The Rodelheim Siddur, also known by titles like Siddur Saffah Berurah and Sfat Emet, was edited by Wolf Heidenheim. It has been published in numerous editions over the past two centuries and remains in use in many Yekkish communities.

What is the 'Authorised Daily Prayer Book', and what is its relationship to 'Singer's Prayer Book'?

The 'Authorised Daily Prayer Book,' also known as the 'Hertz Siddur,' is an annotated edition of 'Singer's Prayer Book' from 1890, edited by Joseph Hertz.

What was a significant innovation introduced by the Artscroll Siddur?

The Artscroll Siddur was groundbreaking because it enabled even individuals new to religious observance ('ba'al teshuvah') to follow the prayer service accurately, guiding them on when to perform specific actions like bowing or standing.

How is the Koren Sacks Siddur positioned in relation to the Artscroll Siddur?

The Koren Sacks Siddur is noted as presenting a significant challenge to the established dominance of the Artscroll Siddur in the market.

What unique feature does the Siddur Nehalel beShabbat incorporate to enhance the prayer experience?

The Siddur Nehalel beShabbat integrates photographs alongside the prayer text, aiming to deepen the understanding of the prayers' meaning and enhance 'kavanah,' a central element of Jewish prayer.

What was the impact of the Siddur Nashim (1976) on Jewish prayer?

Published in 1976, Siddur Nashim was the first Jewish prayer book to utilize female pronouns and imagery for God, which profoundly transformed the prayer experience for some, allowing for a deeper connection and understanding of divine immanence.

What is the general trend in modern liberal prayerbooks regarding the language used for God?

Modern liberal prayerbooks increasingly adopt gender-neutral language in their translations when referring to God, moving away from exclusively male terminology to be more inclusive.

What specific changes related to gender inclusivity were made in the Mishkan T'filah prayerbook?

The Mishkan T'filah prayerbook, released by the American Reform movement in 2007, removed male-specific references to God and included the matriarchs (Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah) alongside the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob) when naming biblical figures.

What is the underlying philosophy of Humanistic and atheist siddurim?

Humanistic and atheist siddurim interpret prayer not as communication with a deity, but as a means for communal and individual expression of hopes, fears, and appreciation for beauty and positive human attributes.

What is the earliest known siddur in the world, and from which century does it originate?

The Afghan Liturgical Quire, dating back to the 8th century, is recognized as the oldest known siddur in the world.

What does the term 'tiklal' signify in the context of Jewish prayer books?

'Tiklal' is a term used for prayer books, particularly among the Yemenite Jewish community.

What is the significance of the 'Baladi' rite within Yemenite Judaism?

The Baladi rite adheres to the legal rulings of Maimonides and represents a more traditional Yemenite liturgy that predates significant Kabbalistic influences, distinguishing it from later developments.

How did the 'Shami' rite gain prominence among Yemenite Jews?

The 'Shami' rite became more widespread among Yemenite Jews due to the availability of less expensive, printed Sephardic prayer books. These printed books, reflecting the Shami tradition, were preferred over the more costly and manuscript-based local 'Baladi' traditions.

What is the etymological meaning of the word 'Siddur'?

The word 'Siddur' derives from the Hebrew root 's-d-r,' which signifies 'order'.

What are the primary textual sources that form the basis of Jewish prayer services?

Jewish prayer services are based on readings from the Torah and the Nevi'im (Prophets), supplemented by prayers and hymns composed by Jewish sages throughout history.

Who was Amram ben Sheshna, and what is his contribution to the Siddur?

Amram ben Sheshna, from the Sura Academy around 850 CE, compiled the earliest known codification of the Jewish prayerbook, known as Seder Rav 'Amram.

What is the historical significance of Saadia Gaon's Siddur?

Saadia Gaon's Siddur, composed about fifty years after Amram ben Sheshna's work, is notable for its use of Judeo-Arabic for its instructional sections.

How did Maimonides' legal code influence Yemenite Jewish prayer practices?

Maimonides' Mishneh Torah includes a formulation of prayers that became the foundation for the Yemenite liturgy, influencing the prayer customs of that community.

What distinguishes a 'Siddur Shalem' from other prayer books?

A 'Siddur Shalem,' meaning 'complete siddur,' encompasses prayers for weekdays, Shabbat, and the three major pilgrimage festivals (Pesach, Shavuot, Sukkot), whereas other siddurim might be limited to weekdays or weekdays and Shabbat.

What is the purpose of a Mahzor in Jewish liturgy?

A Mahzor is a specialized prayer book used for the High Holy Days (Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), containing additional liturgical poems (piyyutim) alongside the standard prayers.

What is the traditional practice concerning Tisha b'Av siddurim in some communities?

In some traditions, Tisha b'Av siddurim are placed in a geniza (a repository for sacred texts) after the fast, symbolizing a hope for the end of the observance in messianic times.

What are 'piyyutim' in the context of Jewish liturgy?

'Piyyutim' are Hebrew liturgical poems that enrich the prayer services, often found in Mahzorim for festivals and holidays.

Siddur Wiki: The Siddur: A Journey Through Jewish Liturgy and Tradition

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Defining the Siddur

Core Concept

A Siddur (Hebrew: siddur, meaning 'order') is a Jewish prayer book containing a prescribed order of daily prayers. It serves as a foundational text for Jewish religious practice, guiding congregants and individuals through the structured cycle of worship.

Terminology

While "Siddur" is the most common term, variations exist across Jewish communities. Sephardi Jews often use tefillot, German Jews use tefillah, and Yemenite Jews refer to their prayer books as tiklal. These terms collectively denote the collection of prayers and liturgical texts.

Ancient Roots

The earliest components of Jewish prayer books are found within the Torah itself, such as the Shema Yisrael and the Priestly Blessing. The Shemoneh Esreh (or Amidah), a central prayer, is traditionally attributed to the Great Assembly during the Second Temple period, indicating a long history of liturgical development.

Historical Evolution

Standardization and Codification

The precise wording and order of prayers evolved over centuries. Following the destruction of the Second Temple, rabbinical councils, notably in Yavne, began to formalize the Amidah. However, the text remained fluid until the Middle Ages, when prayer books achieved a more fixed structure, albeit with regional variations.

Early Printing and Vernacular

The first printed Siddur appeared as early as 1486 in Italy. Mass distribution, however, did not occur until much later. The 16th century saw the emergence of influential versions, and by the 18th century, the Siddur began appearing with vernacular translations, notably in English starting in 1738.

Key Codifiers

Significant contributions to the codification of the Siddur came from figures like Amram Gaon (c. 850 CE), who compiled the Seder Rav 'Amram, and Saadia Gaon, who composed his own influential Siddur. Later scholars like Maimonides also shaped liturgical traditions, particularly influencing Yemenite rites.

Structure and Content

Foundational Texts

The Siddur integrates readings from the Torah (the Five Books of Moses) and the Nevi'im (Prophets). Over time, Jewish sages added numerous prayers and piyyutim (liturgical poems), especially for festivals, enriching the prayer experience.

Liturgical Development

The structure evolved from early biblical texts to the formalized Amidah. Different communities and scholars contributed to the vast corpus of prayers and poems, reflecting diverse theological and mystical interpretations, particularly influenced by Kabbalistic thought in some traditions.

Diversity of Jewish Rites

Major Traditions

Significant variations exist across Jewish rites, including Ashkenazi (German, Polish), Sephardi (Spanish, Portuguese, Mizrahi), Italian, Romaniote, and Yemenite (Teimani) traditions. These differences manifest in the precise wording, order of prayers, and inclusion of piyyutim.

Kabbalistic Influence

Certain traditions, particularly some Sephardic and Hasidic rites influenced by figures like Isaac Luria (the Ari), incorporate Kabbalistic elements. These can include specific meditations, interpretations of divine names, and symbolic arrangements of prayers, reflecting a mystical dimension of worship.

Linguistic Variations

While Hebrew is the primary liturgical language, translations and commentaries exist in numerous languages, including Judeo-Arabic, Yiddish, Ladino, and modern European languages, facilitating understanding and participation across diverse communities.

Prominent Siddurim

Ashkenazi Orthodox

Notable editions include the Rodelheim Siddur (Saffah Berurah, Sfat Emet) by Wolf Heidenheim, the Siddur Avodat Yisrael by Seligman Baer, and versions reflecting the views of the Vilna Gaon (Siddur HaGra, Siddur Aliyos Eliyahu). English translations include the Authorised Daily Prayer Book (Hertz Siddur) and the Artscroll Siddur, known for its extensive commentary.

Sephardic and Mizrahi

This category encompasses a wide array, including the Rinat Yisrael Sephardic edition, prayer books following the halakha of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, and traditions from North Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. Spanish and Portuguese traditions often feature fewer Kabbalistic elements compared to others.

Modern Movements

Conservative Judaism utilizes prayer books like the Siddur Sim Shalom series and Siddur Va'ani Tefilati. Reform and Progressive Judaism offer texts such as Gates of Prayer and Mishkan T'filah, which often incorporate gender-sensitive language and contemporary readings. Reconstructionist Judaism offers the Kol Haneshamah series.

Siddur in Jewish Life

Birth and Coming of Age

The Siddur's influence extends to life cycle events. Prayers and blessings are associated with birth rituals (Brit Milah, Zeved Habat) and rites of passage like Bar/Bat Mitzvah, marking spiritual maturity.

Marriage and Family

Wedding ceremonies incorporate specific blessings and prayers found within the Siddur. Concepts like Niddah and Mikvah, related to family purity, are also tied to the liturgical and legal framework guided by texts like the Siddur.

Daily Practice and Holidays

The Siddur is central to daily prayer services (Shacharit, Mincha, Ma'ariv) and is adapted for Shabbat, festivals, and solemn occasions like Tisha B'Av, which uses a special Kinot siddur.

Scholarly Engagement

Academic Research

The study of Jewish liturgy, including the Siddur, is a significant field within Jewish studies. Scholars like Ismar Elbogen have produced comprehensive histories, analyzing the development of prayers, piyyutim, and the various rites from antiquity to modern times.

Key Resources

Resources such as the Encyclopaedia Judaica, The Jewish Encyclopedia, and specialized works on Jewish prayer provide in-depth analysis of the Siddur's historical context, textual variations, and theological underpinnings.

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References

The oldest Siddur in the world has been unveiled to the public On the Channel 7 website]

Introduction to Siddur Tehilat Hashem.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Siddur Wikipedia page

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The Siddur

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Defining the Siddur 📖

📚 Core Concept

🗣️ Terminology

📜 Ancient Roots

Historical Evolution ⏳

🏛️ Standardization and Codification

🖨️ Early Printing and Vernacular

✍️ Key Codifiers

Structure and Content ⚙️

📖 Foundational Texts

📜 Liturgical Development

Diversity of Jewish Rites 🌍

🗺️ Major Traditions

✨ Kabbalistic Influence

🗣️ Linguistic Variations

Prominent Siddurim ⭐

📜 Ashkenazi Orthodox

🇪🇸 Sephardic and Mizrahi

🏛️ Modern Movements

Siddur in Jewish Life 🌟

👶 Birth and Coming of Age

💍 Marriage and Family

🙏 Daily Practice and Holidays

Scholarly Engagement 🎓

📚 Academic Research

🔍 Key Resources

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining the Siddur

Core Concept

Terminology

Ancient Roots

Historical Evolution

Standardization and Codification

Early Printing and Vernacular

Key Codifiers

Structure and Content

Foundational Texts

Liturgical Development

Diversity of Jewish Rites

Major Traditions

Kabbalistic Influence

Linguistic Variations

Prominent Siddurim

Ashkenazi Orthodox

Sephardic and Mizrahi

Modern Movements

Siddur in Jewish Life

Birth and Coming of Age

Marriage and Family

Daily Practice and Holidays

Scholarly Engagement

Academic Research

Key Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice