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The Priestly Blessing



"Speak to Aaron and his sons, saying: This is how you shall bless the children of Israel (Numbers 6:23)

The Hebrew term for the Priestly Blessing is "Birkat Kohanim." It is also known as "Nesi'at Kapayim," the "lifting of the hands," so named because of the Kohanim's uplifted hands, through which the divine blessings flow.

The Kohen's level of observance and piety are irrelevant. It is not he who is providing the blessing; he is merely serving as a conduit for G‑d's blessings. As G‑d promises (ibid. 27): "They shall bestow My Name upon the children of Israel, and I will bless them."


When is the Blessing Administered?
A blessing must be conferred with a joyful heart, hence the prevailing custom in the Diaspora to relegate the Birkat Kohanim to the major holidays.
Preparing for the Blessing
Washing the Kohanim's hands, the removal of shoes, and the pre-blessing prayer.
The Blessing
The fingers are positioned in a manner which leaves five "windows" through which G‑d's blessings flow to the congregation...
Role of the Congregation
The congregation should face the Kohanim as they are being blessed – it isn't respectful to turn one's back (or side) to a blessing – but should not gaze at them.
Various Laws Pertaining to the Kohen
A crucial prerequisite to Birkat Kohanim is mutual love and respect between the Kohanim and the congregation...
In Lieu of the Blessing
What if no Kohen is present? And what about those prayers when the Priestly Blessing is not administered?
The Spiritual Dimension
The soul of the Kohen stems from the Divine attribute of "abundant kindness." In the mystical works this attribute is compared to a powerful river whose waters cannot be stemmed.
Discuss 2 Comments
Birkat Kohanim Melody
This wonderful, inspiring tune for the birkat kohanim originates in the famed “kapelyeh” (musical group) of the second Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Dovber.
Download Listen (5:48)

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