1) The Tefilos of Shemona Esrei that we daven are in place of the Avodah (service) in the Bais HaMikdash.(For this reason, Tefilah is often referred to by Chazal as Avodah Sh’Belev- Service of the heart)
Just as the Kohanim had to stand while performing the Avodah, so too, we must stand while davening Shemona Esrei.
2) It is ideal to get into a standing position a few moments before beginning to recite the Shemona Esrei; by Shacharis: when the Shliach Tzibbur reaches "Tehilos L’Keil Elyon", by Mincha and Maariv: When the Shliach Tzibbur begins the Kaddish before Shemona Esrei. (Ashrei by Mincha should be said while sitting).
If davening B’Yechidus, without a Minyan, it is proper to simply stand for a moment or two before beginning Shemona Esrei.
If Shemona Esrei was recited while sitting (which is permitted in certain situations, as we will see in the coming days) it does not need to be repeated.
Reader's Question:
Thank you so much for this wonderful website enabling Klal Yisroel to become better people. I really appreciate it!
I have 2 Questions:
1) What is the Halacha regarding blistex, chapstick [and other lip balms] do you need a hechsher (kosher certification) to put things like these on your lips?
2) If one goes to the bathroom during davening at any time after Baruch Sheamar and before Shemona Esrei when should they recite birchas Asher Yaztar?
My Answer:
1) According to the Star K , Lip Balms and Chapstick, both flavored and unflavored, do not require kosher certification. (of course, they may not be used on Shabbos and Yom Tov)
2) One may not interrupt Pesukei D'Zimrah to say "Asher Yatzar", rather it should be said immediately after Shemona Esrei. It may be said anytime up until a new urge to use the bathroom arises again.
Our holy sages, the Chazal tell us
תנא דבי אליהו כל השונה הלכות בכל יום מובטח לו שהוא בן עולם הבא, שנאמר הליכות עולם לו, אל תקרי הליכות אלא הלכות - one who studies [at least two] Halachos daily is assured a portion in Olam Haba - the world to come. (:מגילה כ"ח )
Important Numbers
