Shul “etiquette:” can we honor Hashem while respecting our fellow congregants? | Rabbi Stewart Weiss | Beit Midrash

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Jewish Laws and Thoughts

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Parashat Hashavua Series'Library Piskei Din (Hebrew)Test Yourself

Davening in shul is of primary importance, but how we conduct ourselves while there is also extremely important. One should daven quietly; our tefilot (other than public prayers) should be audible to ourselves, not to those around us (ONE chazan is sufficient!). We should limit talking "out of Siddur," but it is permissible at most points to speak about tefila-related issues (e.g. "what page are we on?"). We should not block the aisles while saying the Amida (while we should not speak during the Amida, we may move, & so it is permissible, e.g. to carry out a child if necessary. We should prepare by bringing Tzedaka with us, rather than using the Tzedaka box as our personal bank (which is a questionable practice & may disturb others). Public prayers, including the bracha for one who has an Aliya, should be said in the nusach of the Bet Knesset. Tzedaka-collectors should wait for the end of Tefila or stand outside, rather than disturbing others. Remember: Derech Eretz Kadma l’Torah!

Jewish Laws and Thoughts