Shabbat - Washing of the Hands

Netilat Yadayim. Washing of the hands. This ritual is in preparation for the eating of bread, in this case, the Shabbat Challah. A cup containing a minimum of 4-5 ounces of water, is used to wash the hands. While pouring once over each hand is deemed sufficient, many people pour twice over each hand to insure that no impurities remain on the hands. Also, there is a custom to start each libation with the right hand, which in Midrashic literature symbolizes strength. After the washing of the hands, a prayer over this act is said. Upon completion of the prayer, the blessing over the Challah is recited. The act of washing is done specifically to prepare us to make a blessing over and to eat the Challah. The combination of washing and eating the Challah is part of one joint action, therefore, we do not speak until both prayers are recited.

Baruch atah Ado-nai, Ehlo-haynu melech Ha-olam, asher kideshanu b'mitzvotav v'tzeevanu al n'teelat yadayim.

Blessed are you L-rd, our G-d ruler of the world, who sanctified us through His commandments and commanded us, to wash our hands

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Last Updated on Tuesday, 10 February 2009 00:37