Al Netilat Yadayim, Washing of the Hands
The Lifting up of the Hands
Baruch atah Hashem Elokeinu Melech ha-olam asher kid'shanu b'mitzvotav v'tzivanu al
Blessed are You, Hashem, our G-d, King of the universe, Who sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to wash our hands.
The washing of the hands symbolizes the removal of defilement and impurity, and the restoration of spiritual cleanliness. It also serves as a reminder of the ancient Temple service in which the Kohen was required to wash his hands before beginning the daily ritual (Shemot 30:20). His was an act of consecration. We emulate that act.
The Hebrew word that normally would be used for "washing hands" is rochetz yadayim, but instead in the blessing we say al netilat yadayim, which literally means "the lifting up of the hands." This symbolizes that the hands are "lifted" to a higher level and are being consecrated for nobler deeds in fulfillment of G-d's mitzvot. We wash them out of respect to our Maker (Shabbat 50b).
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Cited References:
- Shemot 30:20: Whenever they come to the Ohel Moed, they shall wash with water and not die, or when they approach the Mizbeach to serve, to raise up in smoke a fire-offering to Hashem.
- Talmud Bavli - Shabbat 50b: As what was taught: One must wash his face, hands, and feet daily in his Maker's honor, for it is said, Hashem has made every thing for his own purpose. (Mishlei 16:4)
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Source:
- To Pray As A Jew - Rabbi Hayim Donin
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