Playing Music During Prayer

Playing Music During Prayer

From Torah Cafe by Zalman Gordon

May 31, 2026 · 1h 8m

About this episode

This episode discusses the role of music in Jewish prayer and its historical context in the Temple in Jerusalem.

Music played a central role in the service at the Temple in Jerusalem. While sacrifices were offered, the Levites played a variety of music and sang songs of praise to G-d. Yet, while traditional synagogues sing songs of praise and prayer, they generally do not accompany the songs with music. What is the role of instrumental music in Judaism? Why was it used in the Temple in Jerusalem, but generally not used today? Can a community add music to its prayers if it wishes? A fascinating discussion about the role of music in Jewish prayer.

People in this episode

Host: Zalman Gordon

Topics covered

  • music in prayer
  • Judaism
  • Levites
  • Temple service
  • instrumental music

Keywords

  • music
  • prayer
  • Judaism
  • Levites
  • Temple
  • sacrifices
  • songs of praise

Mentioned in this episode

Places: Temple in Jerusalem, Jerusalem

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