[HANASHIR:13235] RE: L'Cha Dodi

[Marsha Fensin <mfsings...>]

Hi Meris,
    L'Cha Dodi, as originally written, has nine verses.  If you will 
look at the back of the Gates of Prayer, in the Songs and Hymns section, 
page 736 and 737, the complete version is transliterated for you. And, 
if you will look at p. 123 in the Gates of Prayer, all nine verses are 
there as well as being translated.  As to why Shamor, Likrat, Hitor'ri 
and Boi were chosen as the "reform" or liberal verses as in services #3, 
and#6, take a look at the translations on page 123 and 124.  The 
"Shamor"  and "Likrat" verses are about Shabbat, Hitor'ri is very 
uplifting in its message, while Mikdash Melech, Hitnaari,  Lo Teivoshi, 
and Yamin U'smol are about the temple being rebuilt which historically 
the reform movement took out in its liturgical offerings. The V'hayou 
Limshisa verse talks about scaverngers and devourers, which may not have 
been something the reformers thought should be sung about on Shabbat.( I 
wouldn't have kept that verse in either.)  
    From what I've seen in the new reform prayerbook, one of its raisons 
d'etre seems to be all about choices.  You are given the complete song 
with the apparent freedom of individul synagogues to pick and choose 
according to their own customs.
    I hope that answers your questions.
B'Shalom,
Marsha
   

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