A Prayer Book for All

Stand for Israel  |  June 27, 2022

We always praise God when those who have been unable to do so – be it for reasons of violence, poverty, or other hardships – are able to join us in worshiping Him. The Jerusalem Post’s Zvika Klein tells us about a technological advance that’s doing just that – a siddur (the Jewish prayer book central to services) that allows those with disabilities to worship:

Siddur Lakol, A Siddur for Everyone, features a clear print with simplified translations and accessible transliteration of core prayers…

The Picture Exchange Communication System is a set of graphic icons to help those with autism spectrum conditions convey their thoughts and needs. All tefillot and songs appear with matching PECS. This will offer a more meaningful prayer experience to those dependent on them…

The siddur will be produced in both A4 and A5 formats, providing options to support people with a wide range of disabilities. Larger font sizes will help people with visual disabilities and the larger edition may help people who find it difficult to hold and read smaller siddurim…

“Our tradition teaches that the Jewish people are just like a Sefer Torah – a complete and perfect whole,” said UK’s Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, introducing the new siddur. “If one single letter is missing, then the entire scroll is not able to be used. Similarly, with the Jewish people, every single person counts. Our concept of community, within which every single person is valued, underpins our commitment to making everyone feel welcome and included in our synagogues…”