The Talmud tells us that one of the questions we will be asked in the heavenly court is: “Did you hope for and long for the moshiach!” There are many ways that our behavior can manifest a positive response to that question.
One way is by showing our respect for the “Mikdash Me’at” - miniature sanctuary that we pray in. That means that we go out of our way to create an atmosphere that reflects that of the Beis Hamikdash - an indoor house of worship to Hashem, where the Divine presence feels welcomed, honoured and revered ( we are only referring to the actual Beis Haknesses / sanctuary).
It is a facility that adheres to the following proper Shul etiquette based on Halacha:
-
Enter the Shul with awe of Hashem’s presence
-
Say “Ma Tovu” when entering the Shul, and go directly to your seat
-
Refrain from entering with your coat / outerwear
-
Refrain from entering with your cell phone or any secular reading materials
-
Refrain from sleeping or eating
-
Refrain from behaving in a light hearted manner and avoid speaking idly or joking around
-
Refrain from walking in with snow or mud on your footwear
-
Refrain from participating in “Kiddush Clubs” during services
-
Talk a lot in Shul, but only to Hashem!
If so many of us were able to comply with the oppressive COVID safety measures because of “dina demalchusa dina” , we certainly should want to comply with Hashem’s laws that are far less oppressive and even more important for our physical / spiritual safety.
As many Shuls are now resuming their regular services post COVID, the following Shuls are committed to help increase the honour of the Shechina in the city of Toronto / Thornhill by adhering to all of the above standards, which will provide safe prayer havens for anyone who wants to maximize their Tefila Be’Tzibur:
- Westmount Shul - Rabbi Yossi Michalowicz (website link)
- Add your Shul to the list
For more information and to find out how to get your Shul on this Kiddush Hashem list, contact
rabbimichalowicz@gmail.com
Important Numbers
