Two Minute Torah Podcast

B'Shallach 5768 by Hazzan Stephen Stein

This coming Sabbath is known as Shabbat Shirah. It earned that title because Shirat Hayam, the Song at the Sea, is read from the Torah and the Song of Deborah and Barak is chanted in the Haftarah. In fact, the Song at the Sea, beginning with the words Az Yashir Moshe, is recited daily in our morning service, toward the conclusion of Pesukei D’zimrah.

Shabbat Shirah is often an occasion on which the hazzan plans music for the service that is special and more elaborate. In my own congregation, our choir of approximately 18 voices usually joins me as, together, we present masterpieces, both old and new, from our glorious musical heritage.

A dynamic synagogue service is one in which there is both participation and listening. Though in most modern synagogues, much emphasis is placed on congregational singing, it is essential, in addition, that there be occasions in each service when worshipers sit back and listen to the beautiful renditions of the hazzan and, if available, a choir, just as they stop to hear the teachings of the Rabbi. Listening is also a form of prayer. It allows for learning and inspiration to take place.

Perhaps this heavy emphasis on communal singing is, in part, an outgrowth of a society in which everyone voices opinions, while too few are patient enough to stop and hear what others have to say. This is particularly frustrating when those not being heard are the ones with expertise in their respective fields.

In studying sacred texts, we speak of p’shat (the simple meaning) and d’rash (interpretations that contain depth). To truly appreciate our complex and beautiful liturgy, one must be open to the d’rash, the renditions of the hazzan and choir as well as the p’shat, which might be likened to congregational singing.

A healthy synagogue service is one in which both participation and listening are found. Let us always strive to maintain a proper balance,

Shabbat Shalom!