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Leading Rabbis Ban Musical Instruments at Selichot Prayers to Preserve Tradition

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First reported by Behadrei Haredim · 1 day ago

What happened

Leading rabbis have issued a halachic ruling banning musical instruments at Selichot prayer events, condemning the practice as a break from Jewish tradition and an imitation of Reform customs. The ban applies to all participants and venues, with public funding also prohibited, aiming to preserve the solemn nature of the High Holy Days.

01Rabbis ban musical instruments at Selichot prayers to protect Jewish tradition.
02The ruling forbids musicians, cantors, and participants from using instruments during services.
03Synagogue officials and venue owners cannot host or rent spaces for musical Selichot events.
04Public bodies are prohibited from funding or supporting these musical prayer gatherings.
05The decision responds to ongoing concerns about commercialization and entertainment replacing solemn prayer.
06The rabbis stress preserving the original character of the High Holy Days amid these prohibitions.

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In this story

OrganizationsTorah authorities