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bircath sheva
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bircath sheva

Judaism
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Quick Summary

The term "bircath sheva" refers to a specific type of prayer in Judaism that is recited on Sabbaths, festivals, and New Moon services. This prayer is part of the amidah, which is the main section of daily prayers.1

Unlike the weekday amidah that contains 19 benedictions, the bircath sheva has only seven sections. It includes the initial three praises and the final three thanksgivings, with a special paragraph for the specific day replacing the usual 13 petitions in the middle. These petitions are omitted because it is considered inappropriate to express need or sadness during joyous occasions. The amidah, including the bircath sheva, is a fundamental part of Jewish worship services and is recited both silently by individuals and aloud by the prayer leader.1

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. berakah
  2. amidah

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