Birkat Cohanim: Talit over Child's Head
It is a custom for fathers to cover their sons' heads with their talit while the priests/cohanim bless the congregation.
Reason So the boys do not to look at the Divine Presence (shechina) present at the priests'/cohanim's fingertips at that time.
Note The priests'/cohanim's hands should be covered by a talit anyway.
Note This custom applies to ANYTIME the priests/cohanim say birkat cohanim, whether on:
Note The priests'/cohanim's hands should be covered by a talit anyway.
Note This custom applies to ANYTIME the priests/cohanim say birkat cohanim, whether on:
- Jewish festivals (the only time the priests/cohanim say this blessing outside of Eretz Yisrael), or
- Daily (as is done in Eretz Yisrael).
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Return to Main Category: Amida: Reader's Repetition: Priestly Blessing (Birkat Cohanim)