Daily Prayers in Judaism

Question 1

4 important prayers in Judaism

Answer 1

Shema, Amidah, Kaddish, Aleinu

Question 2

Shema

Answer 2

Declaration of faith affirming the monotheistic belief in Judaism

Question 3

Amidah

Answer 3

This means ‘standing prayer’ and is considered by many in Judaism to be the most important prayer on weekdays (can be said by everyone as a way to offer their own personal prayer)

Question 4

Kaddish

Answer 4

A doxology which means a hymn of praise to God. Used to end the main section of services (usually recited in Aramaic)

Question 5

Aleinu

Answer 5

Usually part of the closing prayers of Jewish services. It means ‘upon us’ focusing on the obligation or duty of Jewish people to praise God

Question 6

Morning Prayer

Answer 6

Shacharit

Question 7

Afternoon Prayer

Answer 7

Minchah

Question 8

Evening Prayer

Answer 8

Maariv

Question 9

What is the Shacharit?

Answer 9

The morning prayer- remembers when sacrifices were made in the temple, and it was when Abraham chose to pray. He wanted to start his day with God

Question 10

What is Minchah?

Answer 10

The afternoon prayer- remembers the afternoon sacrifice that took place in the temple. Praying at this time of the day means your day is interrupted and this reminds you how important God is

Question 11

What is Maariv?

Answer 11

The evening prayer- by praying in the evening, Jews make God the last thing on their minds before going to sleep