Question
Our Conservative synagogue is exploring alternatives to the morning service and has introduced chanting certain phrases in Hebrew instead of the traditional P’sukey D’Zimrah prayers. Is this allowed? Is P’sukey D’Zimrah mandated by Jewish law?
Answer
Psukei D'zimrah is mandated by Jewish law. If you examine Jewish law carefully, you will probably discover that much of what is done in a Conservative synagogue contradicts Jewish law and that the suggested change regarding P'sukei D'zimra is not the exception but rather the rule.
