17

What is the origin of the custom of opening the ark for important prayers (not connected with the need to take out the Torah scroll)?

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
8

Levush Orach Chaim 133 says that this is done to help us have the proper intention by Tefila.

Rivivos Efraim Volume 3:395 says that the reason we open the Aron Kodesh has to do with the Posuk "Vataal Shaavosom El HoElokim ותעל שועתם אל האלקים" which is said regarding the place the Sefer Torah rests upon, and the proof is that we open it up for Shema Kolainu to inspire the Zechus of the Sefer Torah.

Improve this answer
1
  • 1
    would you like to hazard a guess at the mechanism for this process. Eg He sees the Sefer Torah and thinks of the greatness of the Lawgiver and his own lowliness etc.
    – Avrohom Yitzchok
    Commented Sep 10, 2012 at 21:37

You must log in to answer this question.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged .