Jewish Prayer Quiz

Jewish prayer has evolved from scattered supplications in the Bible to a vast, codified tradition today. How much do you know about Jewish prayer, synagogues, rabbis, and liturgy?

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Question 1. True or false: The issue of musical instruments in Shabbat services is controversial, with different communities embracing divergent practices.
 True
 False

 

Question 2. What is a niggun?
 A wordless melody
 A musical motif that is utilized in various combinations when chanting prayers
 The specific tune for chanting the Torah
 Selections from Psalms, sung on Friday night

 

Question 3. According to the Talmud, who originated the morning shaharit service?
 Abraham
 Sarah
 Isaac
 Jacob
 Moses

 

Question 4. Which prayer, which refers to the "houses of Israel," is recited upon entering the synagogue?
 Shema
 Mah Tovu
 Amidah
 Aleinu

 

Question 5. How many times is the leather strap of tefillin wrapped around one's arm?
 Three
 Five
 Six
 Seven

 

Question 6. Which is the traditional Hebrew pronunciation of the word "amen"?
 Ay-men
 Ah-men
 Traditional Jews do not say "amen"

 

Question 7. The additional prayer service for Shabbat and festivals is called:
 Minhah
 Mussaf
 Aleinu
 Maariv

 

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