ENTERING JEWISH PRAYER: A Guide to Personal Devotion and the Worship Service - Hardcover

"Learning about prayer is a way of entering the world of Jewish tradition", Rabbi Hammer writes, and the Siddur - the Jewish prayerbook - is the best possible introduction into that world. In it, one is brought face-to-face with Judaism's central struggle for an understanding of God, human life, and the world. Mastery of the Siddur enables one to worship as a Jew and to grasp the essence of Judaism. Now, in this engaging and highly informative book, Rabbi Hammer provides an introduction to the liturgy of the Siddur. More than a "how-to" guide, Entering Jewish Prayer deals with the basic issues in prayer for the modern worshipper; the historical compilation of the Siddur; the orchestration of the daily, Sabbath, and festival prayers; the themes of special prayers, such as the Blessing After Meals and the Kaddish; and the essential experience of making prayer a vital part of one's life. For anyone who has ever felt lost or confused at a Jewish service, or anyone interested in an introduction to this facet of Jewish literacy, Entering Jewish Prayer provides a key to meaningful participation and spiritual growth.

Reuven Hammer earned his rabbinical ordination and a doctorate in theology at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. He lives and teaches in Jerusalem.