Prayer Is like Sacrifice

R. Phineas in the name of R. Hoshaiah: He who prays in the synagogue is as if he had sacrificed a pure flour offering. What is the reason? As the children of Israel bring flour offering in a pure vessel in the Eternal’s house (Isaiah 66:20). R. Jeremiah in the name of R. Abbahu: Seek the Eternal where He is to be found (Isaiah 55:6). Where is He to be found? In synagogues and houses of study. Call on Him when He is close (ibid.). Where is He close? In synagogues and houses of study. R. Isaac ben R. Eleazar said: Not only that, but their God stands over them. What is the reason? God stands in the assembly of the mighty; from the inside God will judge (Psalm 82:1).

Adapted from the translation ofHeinrich W. Guggenheimer.