ברכת כהנים
birkat kohanim
The priestly blessing in Hebrew is ברכת כהנים (birkat kohanim).
The phrase refers specifically to the biblical text from Numbers 6:24, 26, which is recited by priests over the congregation during Jewish religious services. This prayer is also known as the Birkat Kohanim.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the word birkat (blessing of) and kohanim (priests).
How do you pronounce it?
birkat kohanim
Did you know?
- The blessing is famously delivered using a specific hand gesture where the priests form the letter shin with their fingers to symbolize Shaddai, a name for God.
- During the recitation of ברכת כהנים, the priests often spread their hands and cover their eyes with their garments to signify the sanctity of the moment.
- Historically, the status of כהנים was hereditary, meaning only descendants of Aaron could perform the ברכת כהנים regardless of their other roles in the community.
Examples in context
- הוא סיים ללמוד על ברכת כהנים.hu siyam lilmod al birkat kohanim.He finished studying the priestly blessing.
- כולם עמדו לשמוע את ברכת כהנים.kulam amdu lishmoa et birkat kohanim.Everyone stood up to hear the priestly blessing.
Example conversation
Ido and Maya are at a synagogue during a holiday service.
- עידו Idoמאיה, תראי, עכשיו מתחילים את ברכת כהנים.Maya, tir'i, achshav matchilim et birkat kohanim.Maya, look, the priestly blessing is starting now.
- מאיה Mayaאני רואה, עידו. זה תמיד נעים.Ani ro'ah, Ido. Ze tamid na'im.I see, Ido. It is always pleasant.
- עידו Idoאת יודעת מה אומרים בברכת כהנים?At yoda'at ma omrim b'birkat kohanim?Do you know what is said in the priestly blessing?
- מאיה Mayaכן, זו ברכה לשלום ולשלווה.Ken, zo biracha lashalom uleshalva.Yes, it is a blessing for peace and tranquility.
