Exploring Sacred Spaces Ep. 4: Stepping up to Offer Blessings

Introduction

 

In previous episodes, the Maggid of Melbourne discussed how the Hazzan should approach the lectern, examining the question of whether one should step up or down. What about when the Kohanim come forward to lead the priestly blessing? Must they step up? What if there is no space, or some other challenges that would prevent building that step up? Together with the Maggid of Melbourne, we’ll examine historical and halachic perspectives on designing the steps and platform that lead to the Aron Kodesh.

Credits: Rabbi Dr. Levi Cooper – Pardes Faculty

Levi Cooper

Dr. Levi Cooper is Senior Faculty at Pardes, teaching Jewish Law and Hasidut. He holds an LL.B., LL.M. and Ph.D from Bar-Ilan University, where he currently teaches in their Faculty of Law. Levi has been awarded multiple post-doctoral research grants, held academic visitor and educational advisory roles in Europe and Asia, and written extensively for academic publications.

Known as the Maggid of Melbourne, Levi hails from Australia. He currently lives in Zur Hadassa, where he has served as rabbi since 2005, co-founded the Lavi Primary School, and spearheaded other communal initiatives.