Machzor

Amsterdam Mahzor, 058V

Machzor (plural: Machzorim) is a Jewish prayer book used during the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, as well as the Three Pilgrimage Festivals: Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot. The term "Machzor" means "cycle" in Hebrew, reflecting the cyclical nature of the Jewish liturgical year.

History

The Machzor has its origins in the early medieval period, evolving from the Siddur, the daily prayer book. The first Machzorim were compiled by the Geonim in Babylonia and later expanded by various Jewish communities, including the Ashkenazi and Sephardi traditions.

Structure

The Machzor is organized according to the specific prayers and liturgies for each holiday. It includes:

• The Amidah, a central prayer recited during each service.
• The Vidui, a confessional prayer recited on Yom Kippur.
• The Hallel, a series of psalms of praise recited on festivals.
• The Musaf, an additional service recited on Shabbat and festivals.
• The Selichot, penitential prayers recited during the High Holy Days.

Variations

Different Jewish communities have developed their own versions of the Machzor, reflecting their unique liturgical customs and traditions. Some of the notable versions include:

• The Ashkenazi Machzor, used by Jews of Central and Eastern European descent.
• The Sephardi Machzor, used by Jews of Spanish and Portuguese descent.
• The Yemenite Machzor, used by Jews from Yemen.

Significance

The Machzor plays a crucial role in Jewish worship, guiding the community through the prayers and rituals of the most significant days in the Jewish calendar. It serves as a spiritual roadmap, helping worshippers to reflect, repent, and renew their faith.

See also

• Siddur
• Rosh Hashanah
• Yom Kippur
• Passover
• Shavuot
• Sukkot
• Jewish prayer