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Review by
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Jeremy Golding from Northboro, MA United States
Siddur Haveirim Kol Yisrael reflects havurah Judaism and its values - accessibility, attention to tradition, inclusiveness, and depth and breadth of interpretive commentary. Its editors have created a trans-denominational work for those who wish to learn to recite and to understand the traditional prayers in Hebrew, and also for those who wish to deepen their knowledge of the subtleties of the Friday evening and festival evening liturgy.
The book's layout is integral to its function. Facing pages are organized in four columns, from left to right: transliteration, Hebrew text, English translation, and commentary. The transliteration and translation correspond line-by-line to the Hebrew text. The editors use the traditional Hebrew text, but translation is gender-neutral. Great care was taken to ensure accurate but fluid translation. In selected locations, they offer liturgical options (for example, the Imahot (mothers) in the Amidah prayer). Commentary and additional readings were chosen from traditional and modern sources, many composed especially for the siddur itself. Fonts are clear and esthetically pleasing, and serve as an aid to place-finding within the text.
The book has a wealth of material not often found in a siddur. The introduction provides an overview of the structure of prayer and blessings, as well as instructions for leading creative services. The siddur includes Birkat Hamazon (blessing after the meal), sections from Psalms for singing and study, verses and songs for the study and celebration of Torah, and a well-annotated section of shabbat zemirot (songs), all in linear transliteration and translation. It also includes some new rituals including a Healing service, blessings for those leaving the community and for those about to be married, and a marvelous story-midrash on prayer in the Hassidic style. This siddur is perfect for chavurah synagogue services, learners' services, and for Friday night communities that enjoy singing. I recommend it to all who wish to improve their ability to pray in Hebrew, and to those already proficient in Hebrew who wish to deepen their understanding and appreciation of prayer.
Jeremy Golding, Assistant Editor
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