When the congregation prays toward a direction (e.g., where the ark is placed) that is not due east, may an individual pray facing east instead?
Synopsis
When a synagogue's ark is not on the eastern wall and the congregation prays in a different direction, an individual who wants to pray east risks appearing as if there are two separate authorities. The Mishnah Berurah and Aruch HaShulchan rule the individual should pray with the congregation and angle his face eastward.
More in Direction of Prayer
What direction must one face when praying, based on one's location?
3 opinions
When one prays facing a direction other than toward Eretz Yisrael, how should the face be oriented?
4 opinions
Should Ashkenazi synagogues in Eastern Europe orient the ark precisely toward Eretz Yisrael (southeast) or due east?
4 opinions
When one cannot determine the directions, how should one pray?
2 opinions
May one who is riding an animal or traveling pray while in motion rather than stopping to pray standing?
3 opinions
When one is seated for the entire Amidah due to travel, must one stand for the bowing passages and take three steps back?
3 opinions
May a sick person pray while lying on their side?
4 opinions
May one pray seated when surrounded by non-Jews who may interrupt or cause financial loss?
2 opinions
Related from other topics
May an individual reciting the Amidah say Kedushah along with the congregation when the congregation is saying Kedushah d'Sidrah (U'va L'Tzion)?
Individual Additions to Prayer
May an individual reciting the Shacharit Amidah say Kedushah with the congregation if the congregation is saying Kedushah of Musaf (Keter/Ne'aritzcha)?
Individual Additions to Prayer
When reciting piyutim causes the congregation to miss the time for Kriat Shema or Tefillah, what should an individual do?
Qualifications of Prayer Leader
Is there a difference in the halakha for mentioning rain between individuals praying alone and the congregation?
Rain Request (V'Ten Tal U'Matar)
May an individual who finishes Shemoneh Esrei before the prayer leader turn to face the congregation?
Priestly Blessing
Must the prayer leader wait for all congregation members who are still praying, including prominent individuals, before leading the repetition?
Repetition of Amidah
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.