Prayer · Orach Chaim 98

Concentration During Shemoneh Esrei

7 questions · 24 opinions

What level of mental concentration (kavanah) is required during Shemoneh Esrei?

4 opinions across 2 eras

Concentration (Kavanah) — Re…

Is it forbidden to kiss one's young children in synagogue, and why?

3 opinions across 2 eras

Kissing Children in Synagogue

Must one avoid praying in a place or at a time that impairs concentration?

4 opinions across 2 eras

Conditions — Distracting Pla…

Must one pray in the manner of a supplicant, and what is the consequence of praying as if fulfilling a mere obligation?

3 opinions across 2 eras

Manner of Prayer — Supplicat…

How does prayer parallel the Temple sacrifices, and what physical and mental conditions does this impose?

3 opinions across 2 eras

Prayer as Sacrifice — Derive…

After praying with concentration, may one think 'God should fulfill my request because I concentrated well'?

3 opinions across 2 eras

Attitude After Prayer — Self…

What technique may be used to dispel distracting thoughts during Shemoneh Esrei, and what is the halakhic concern with certain methods?

4 opinions across 2 eras

Distracting Thoughts — Remed…