Netilat Yadayim for Shabbat

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	Netilat Yadayim -

	Washing the Hands for Shabbat





	It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person. - Jesus


	Directly after reciting the Kiddush, everyone washes their hands in the prescribed ritual manner to prepare for the blessing over the bread (see note, below). Customarily, after reciting this blessing you do not speak until you have eaten the challah:


	Blessed art thou, Lord our God, Master of the universe, who hast sanctified us with thy commandments, and commanded us about washing the hands.


	Barukh attah Adonai eloheinu melekh ha-olam, asher kiddeshanu bemitzvotav vetzivanu al netilat yadayim.


	How to Wash Your Hands Fill a large cup that holds at least four and a half ounces with water and pour water on each hand front and back, starting with the right hand. Many people use special handwashing cups, which have two handles to them to make the pouring of the water easier.


	Ritualistic Hand Washing

The ritual of Netilat Yadayim is actually a "ceremonial" cleansing. In fact, before engaging in this ritual, your hands should already be clean! The Lord Jesus our Mashiach opposed this traditional ritual of cleansing as essentially being meaningless (Matthew 15:1-14; see also Mark 7:3-16). It is included here for educational purposes only.

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		Hebrew for Christians Copyright © John J. Parsons All rights reserved.