[HANASHIR:11478] Re: facing east

[Andy Curry <acurry...>]

As Josh W. states (correctly, I believe), we are not to bow to the ark or
to the Torah; we bow to nothing or no one but God.  That's the main point
of Alenu, so I really don't understand the custom of opening the ark for
that tfila, because it gives the impression that we are doing just that.

To the question about the importance of facing east:  The modern Orthodox
shul here in KC has its sanctuary facing north (it was a Baptist church
before we redeemed it :)).  The shaliach tzibur, therefore, faces north
with the rest of the congregation.  However, many congregants will turn to
the east for the Amidah.

In my Conservative shul, the shaliach tzibur does as he/she wishes (except
for Barchu and the "Vaanachnu korim" of Alenu, where he must face a certain
way).  When I am leading a service in shul, I face the same way as the
congregation for the duration.  It helps me to concentrate on tfila.  But,
like Rachelle, in a shiva service, I usually will face the people.  Can't
really say why; it just feels right...

So really there are two minhagim:  Facing east, and the shaliach tzibur
facing in the same direction as the congregation.

Shabbat shalom,
Andy

At 09:53 PM 5/2/02 -0400, you wrote: 
>>>>
I'm curious about the Jewish tradition of facing east during prayer.
Having been born in a country east of Jerusalem and having been raised
Reform, I did not grow up with this idea.  When leading shiva prayers, I
like to face the congregation for home prayer, especially in a circle
formation unless the family suggests we face east.  During Temple services,
I face the congregation and turn to the ark (which in our Temple is not in
an easterly direction) for Bar'chu and Aleinu. I feel a bit funny bowing
"to" the congregation, and would rather be looking at the ark at that
point.  I'd like to hear from other service leaders on this issue.  Do you
always face east?  How important is this minhag in more traditional
movements.  
Thanks,
Rachelle
  
  
  
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Andy Curry, Kansas City
acurry (at) lenexa(dot)sema(dot)slb(dot)com

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