Rabbi Benjamin Hotta Explains Pause Needed Between 'Vayikra Beshem' and 'Hashem' in Prayer

Rabbi Benjamin Hotta, a prominent halachic authority, presents a daily brief halacha segment on Kikar HaShabbat, focusing on current Jewish law and customs. In his latest video, he addresses a specific detail in the recitation of the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy (Yud Gimel Middot) during Selichot prayers. Rabbi Hotta emphasizes the importance of making a deliberate pause between the words "Vayikra Beshem" and "Hashem" to properly honor the phrasing and meaning. This guidance is part of his ongoing series explaining precise halachic practices.

The segment was published on August 27, 2026, coinciding with a significant Selichot gathering at the Western Wall, where approximately 50,000 people participated in an emotionally charged prayer event. The video includes Rabbi Hotta alongside commentators Shuki Solomon and Rabbi Yishai Walis, who discuss the weekly Torah portion "Ki Tavo" and related halachic points. The pause in the prayer recitation is highlighted as a key detail for those observing the traditional liturgy.

This instruction reflects the meticulous care given to prayer customs in Jewish law and is part of Rabbi Hotta's broader effort to educate the public on daily halachic matters through concise, accessible videos.