By February 1, 2016 Read More →

The Eighteen Benedictions- The Benediction Against the Heretics

Baram SynagoguePalestinian texts of the Amidah preserve an early form of the Benediction against Heretics which includes both minim, Jewish Christians, and nozerim, Gentile Christians. The Benediction’s recitation was intended to bring about the separation of Christians from the synagogue. Such a procedure is mentioned in the Gospel of John and in the writings of the Church Fathers. 

For the apostates 152 may there be no hope unless they return to Your Torah. As for the nozerim and the minim, may they perish immediately. Speedily may they be erased from the Book of Life and may they not be registered among the righteous. Blessed are You, O Lord, Who subdues the wicked.

[152] Jews who no longer practice Judaism

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