Jews face the city of Jerusalem when praying. This practice is a central aspect of Jewish prayer, symbolizing a spiritual connection to the holiest site in Judaism, the Temple Mount in Jerusalem.
The Significance of Jerusalem in Prayer
The tradition of facing Jerusalem during prayer is deeply rooted in Jewish faith and history. Jerusalem is considered the spiritual heart of the Jewish people, the location of the First and Second Temples, and the direction toward which all prayers are directed. This orientation serves as a constant reminder of the historical and spiritual bond to the holy city.
Practical Directions Based on Location
While the general rule is to face Jerusalem, the specific compass direction depends on an individual's geographical location relative to the city.
For those praying:
- Within Jerusalem: They face towards the site of the Temple Mount.
- Outside Jerusalem: The direction is adjusted to point towards Jerusalem.
Here’s a practical breakdown of the directions:
| Location Relative to Jerusalem | Direction Faced |
|---|---|
| North of Jerusalem | South |
| East of Jerusalem | West |
| South of Jerusalem | North |
| West of Jerusalem | East |
The term Mizrah (מזרח), Hebrew for "east," is particularly significant, as many Jewish communities historically resided west of Jerusalem and thus faced east during prayer. This term has become synonymous with the eastern wall of a synagogue, often decorated to indicate the direction of prayer.
Historical and Spiritual Context
This custom of facing Jerusalem is mentioned in various Jewish texts and traditions, emphasizing the unity of prayer and the yearning for spiritual redemption connected to the holy city. It creates a unified prayer experience for Jews worldwide, physically aligning them with their spiritual center.
