HAFTARAH Meaning and
Definition
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Haftarah is a Hebrew word derived from the root "haftor," meaning "conclude" or "finish." In the Jewish tradition, Haftarah refers to a selection from the Nevi'im (the Prophets) that is read, chanted, or sung after the reading of the Torah portion during Shabbat (Sabbath) and holiday services. This practice is observed by Jewish communities across the world and is an integral part of synagogue services.
The Haftarah portion is chosen to correspond thematically or linguistically with the Torah portion of the week. It often provides additional insights, interpretations, or moral lessons related to the main text. Haftarah readings usually come from the books of the Prophets, including Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and others.
Reciting the Haftarah helps to deepen the understanding of the weekly Torah portion and brings a spirit of inspiration to the worship experience. It connects the timeless wisdom of the Torah with the teachings and perspectives of the Prophets, offering a comprehensive and multifaceted spiritual lesson.
Traditionally, the Haftarah is chanted with a specific melody known as "trope" or "cantillation," using a unique system of musical notes or symbols. This melodic reading adds an engaging and melodic quality to the Haftarah, enhancing the overall religious experience.
Common Misspellings for HAFTARAH
- haphtarah
- haftorah
- Heftorah
- gaftarah
- baftarah
- naftarah
- jaftarah
- uaftarah
- yaftarah
- hzftarah
- hsftarah
- hwftarah
- hqftarah
- hadtarah
- hactarah
- havtarah
- hagtarah
- hattarah
- hartarah
- hafrarah
Etymology of HAFTARAH
The word "Haftarah" (also spelled "Haftara" or "Haftorah") is derived from the Hebrew language. It is a combination of two Hebrew words: "haf" meaning "to conclude" or "to end", and "Torah" meaning "teaching" or "law".
In Jewish religious traditions, the Haftarah refers to a section from the Nevi'im (Prophets) that is read or chanted in synagogue services after the Torah portion is completed. It is seen as a complement to the Torah reading and serves as a commentary or additional teaching.
The practice of reading the Haftarah developed during a time when the public reading of the Torah was prohibited by Greek authorities. Jewish communities turned to reading selections from the Prophets as a means of preserving their traditions and continuing religious teachings.
Similar spelling words for HAFTARAH
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