Do Jews kneel when they pray?

Answer 1

When Adonai/Elohim/Hashem/YVHV is addressed or discussed in prayer or in song, reverence demands that we, as His chosen, bow. To see a specific way of doing this, please refer to Judaism 101

- Odeda Abrahams

Answer 2

Firstly, there is a Talmudic passage which refers to 'bending in worship' to God (Va'anachnu qor`im, umishtachavim umodim, in case you're interested). This is reason enough for a tradition in Judaism, and certainly more than some traditions have. ;)

Secondly, Judaism is a very practical religion. When praying, it's very easy to get tired and drift off. If, however, you're on your feet bowing, it adds a kinesthetic element which not only keeps the pray-er wide awake but also aids comprehension of the text.

Answer 3

According to the documentary "Talmud", the Jews bob their heads while they pray and while they read their pieces of literature (such as the Talmud or Torah) in order to promote concentration and memorization.

Apparently, it works as such: one direction of head movement "opens a valve to let information in" and the other movement "closes the valve to solidify the information that has been taken in".

It also might be symbolic of the "rhythm" of God's creation (like a heartbeat).

Answer 4

There are three usual methods of bowing. At the appropriate point in the Aleinu and Modim prayers, the head is bowed and the back is bent forward. A 45-degree angle is sufficient.

At three other points in the Shemoneh Esrei prayer, the knees are bent forward slightly, then straightened up, and immediately afterward the person bows as described above.

In the appropriate section of the Tachanun prayer, while sitting, one leans forward and rests his head on his arm.

Answer 5

Bowing during prayer signifies that we are beholden to God and we wish to demonstrate humility in front of Him. See also:

More about Jewish prayer

Answer 6

No. At certain points during the prayers, the knees are bent (Talmud, Berakhot 12a) while the person remains standing, but the people don't kneel.

Answer 7

"The soul of a man is (as) the candle-flame of the Lord, searching out all the inward parts." (Proverbs 20:27). Just as a flame sways, so our soul moves our body to do so during prayers.