Esotericism, Accessibility, and Mainstreamisation: Pre-Prayer Gesturing and the Evolution of Jewish Practice
Diné Israel, 32 (2018): 125*-158*
35 Pages Posted: 18 Nov 2017 Last revised: 21 Oct 2018
Date Written: October 4, 2018
Abstract
Moments before beginning the silent prayer, male and female synagogue attendees in Istanbul turn to each other and offer a fleeting hand gesture. This study tracks this inimitable practice from its hazy origins, through almost four centuries to the present day. Beyond uncovering the sources of the custom and laying bare the justifications and explanations, this study considers the evolving meaning of this practice, demonstrating that the custom goes through different stages. The practice’s recorded history begins with esoteric kabbalistic lore, it then metamorphoses into an accessible template, before processes of mainstreamisation threaten its existence. The survival of the practice is protected in contemporary communities that function like Nature Reserves. Unique customs that are preserved in such Nature Reserves should be guarded and documented.
Keywords: Jewish law, custom, gesture, prayer, kabbalah, mysticism, spirituality, synagogue, angel, unity, love, Istanbul, Izmir, Aleppo, nature reserve
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