What is the Shemoneh Esreh (Amidah) prayer?
The central prayer recited three times a day, composed of 19 blessings (originally 18)
Source: Shulchan Aruch OC 89-127
In detail
The Shemoneh Esreh (literally '18') or Amidah ('standing') is the central prayer of every service. On weekdays it contains 19 blessings (originally 18, a 19th was added later). It is recited standing, feet together, in silent concentration. The three opening blessings praise God, the middle blessings contain requests, and the three closing blessings offer thanks.
Full study guide: Prayer and Blessings
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Support the projectRelated questions
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