Guide
Praying with Scripture
3rd–6th Centuries
Verses of scripture are used routinely in rabbinic ritual practice to introduce and conclude prayers. As divine words, they are deemed to have talismanic properties.
Related Primary Sources
Primary Source
Recitation of Verses before Prayer
y. Berakhot 5:1, 8d
R. Hezekiah, R. Jacob bar Aha, R. Yasa in the name of R. Yohanan, “[Before you recite your Prayer,] this verse should always be on your lips: The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our…
Primary Source
Recitation of Psalm 145 (Ashre)
b. Berakhot 4b
R. Eleazar said [that] R. Avina said: Anyone who recites A psalm of David (Psalm 145) three times every day is assured of [a place in] the world to come. What is the reason? If you say that it is…