May someone take the three steps backward to the side rather than directly backward, if space is constrained behind them?
Synopsis
In a very tight space, one may take the three steps sideways (turning face gradually) rather than directly backward, mimicking how priests and departing students turned during the Temple service and talmudic times.
More in Priestly Blessing
Should one bow and step back three steps after Shemoneh Esrei in a single bow, or in multiple bows?
1 opinions
During the three steps, when should one turn one's head toward the left and right?
2 opinions
Should one remain standing in place after taking the three steps back, or may one return to one's original position immediately?
6 opinions
When stepping backward, which foot should one move first—the right or the left?
4 opinions
What is the minimum distance one must cover with each of the three steps backward?
3 opinions
Is it prohibited to take more than three steps backward?
3 opinions
Must the prayer leader take three steps backward when he prays quietly, and must he repeat the steps when he repeats the prayer aloud?
4 opinions
When the prayer leader repeats the Shemoneh Esrei aloud, should he recite the verse 'Hashem, s'fatai tiftach' (Open my lips, O Lord)?
2 opinions
Related from other topics
After completing one's own prayer, may one take three steps backward if someone is praying behind?
Not Passing Before Someone Praying
When exactly does the four-amot waiting period begin — at the conclusion of the Amidah text or after pesi'ot acharonot (taking three steps back and reciting oseh shalom)?
Waiting Between Prayer and Eating
If one has finished all supplications but cannot yet take three steps back because someone is praying behind him, may one respond to Amen and other congregational responses?
Concluding Repetition and Kaddish
If the prayer leader (hazzan) wants to bless and read themselves, must someone stand next to them?
Haftarah
May a large group that cannot hear the zimun leader split into smaller groups of three (rather than ten) to facilitate zimun?
Zimmun of Ten
Does the prohibition against urinating naked in front of one's bed apply when urinating into a vessel rather than directly on the ground?
Prohibited Activities Before Prayer
Discussion
Discussion coming soon.
The Daily Law
One question. Every opinion. Every morning.
A new halakhic question and the full spectrum of rabbinic thought, delivered daily.