How Do You Spell HAFTORAH?

Pronunciation: [hˈaftɔːɹə] (IPA)

The word "Haftorah" is derived from Hebrew and refers to a reading from the prophets during Jewish religious services. The correct spelling of this word is challenging due to the fact that it contains several consonant clusters that are not typically found in English. To be precise, it is spelled as [hæfˈtɔːɹə] in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "haf" begins with the voiceless fricative /h/ sound followed by a short /æ/ vowel sound. The second syllable "torah" starts with the voiced fricative /v/ sound and ends with the voiceless alveolar trill /r/.

HAFTORAH Meaning and Definition

1. Haftorah is a term in Judaism that refers to a designated selection from the Hebrew Bible, specifically from the Prophets, which is read or chanted publicly in synagogue services on Shabbat (Sabbath) and other Jewish holidays. The term "Haftorah" comes from the Hebrew root "haftara," meaning "to conclude."

   Traditionally, the Haftorah is read immediately following the reading of the Torah portion during synagogue services. It serves as a complementary or supplementary reading that provides further insights, moral lessons, or connections to the theme of the Torah portion. The selection is often chosen based on its thematic relevance to the assigned Torah portion or to commemorate historical events or figures associated with the holiday being celebrated.

   The Haftorah is usually chanted with traditional cantillation (melodic chant) and is performed by a skilled individual known as a ba'al koreh. Each Haftorah is associated with a specific melodic trope, which is passed down through generations. Additionally, the Haftorah may be read in the original Hebrew or translated into the local language for better comprehension.

   Reading the Haftorah is a significant aspect of Jewish liturgy, as it provides an opportunity to engage with the timeless teachings and messages found in the Prophets. It enhances the textual and thematic diversity of the synagogue service, enriching the spiritual experience of the worshippers. The Haftorah also serves as a platform to connect the lessons of the ancient texts to contemporary life and reinforce moral and ethical values in the Jewish community.

Common Misspellings for HAFTORAH

• haforah
• Heftorah

Etymology of HAFTORAH

The word "Haftorah" comes from Hebrew and has a few components:

1. "Haf" or "Heftze" - This word means "portion" or "part". It is related to the Hebrew root ח.פ.צ (ch.p.ts), which conveys the idea of dividing or separating.

2. "Torah" - This word refers to the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, known as the Torah. It can also have a broader meaning, representing the entire Hebrew Bible or the teachings and principles contained within it.

So, "Haftorah" literally means "part" or "portion" of the Torah. It specifically refers to a section or selection from the books of the Hebrew Bible that is read publicly in synagogue services following the weekly Torah reading.

Similar spelling words for HAFTORAH

• Haphtarah,
• Haphtorah,
• Haftarah.