Three Shout but Are Not Answered

שלושה צועקים ואינם נענים

Authors

  • Avital D. Vovnoboy Translator

Keywords:

Meshorerim, Ashkenazi Synagogues, critique, translation

Abstract

The musical practices in Ashkenazic synagogues, particularly the role of singers in leading prayers, have long been a subject of discussion. This translation presents an anonymous Hebrew text from around the turn of the eighteenth century, published in Amsterdam. The text critiques the practice of the meshorerim—a group of three singers who led prayers in many Ashkenazi synagogues. The pamphlet provides a contemporary insight into the community's acceptance of the meshorerim and the public opinions surrounding their role. The author, who holds an opposing view to the popular opinion, critiques the meshorerim’s musical abilities, behaviors, and attitude toward prayer, often using a mocking tone. Despite the author’s criticism, the text offers valuable insight into the practices of meshorerim and provides a window into the evolving practices and opinions of Ashkenazi prayer in the period.

Author Biography

  • Avital D. Vovnoboy

    Avital Vovnoboy is an independent scholar with a focus on Jewish music. She holds a B.A. (Cum Laude) in music and psychology and an M.A. (Cum Laude) in musicology from University of Haifa in 2022. Her thesis focuses on the study of Salamone Rossi’s Hebrew music performances, completed under the supervision of Dr. Alon Schab, and was awarded the Eduard Markson Scholarship for her academic achievements. Her research projects include examining the music of Jewish synagogues in nineteenth-century Copenhagen and exploring the music of Jewish-religious women in Israel. She is also one of the founders of the Inter-University Forum for Graduate and Doctoral Students in Musicology in Israel.

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Published

2025-01-22

Issue

Vol. 22 (2024): New Directions in the Study of Music and European Jewish Culture, ca. 1600-1800

Section

Articles