The Organ and Jewish Worship a Statement
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The integration of organs into Jewish worship has sparked decades of debate within Conservative Judaism, revealing deep tensions between tradition and modernity. An analysis of United Synagogue congregations shows remarkable diversity in organ usage, from full incorporation in all services to complete abstention. While organs can legitimately enhance Conservative Jewish worship through aesthetic interpretation of liturgical content that resonates with modern congregants, their implementation carries significant risks. Through assessment of varied congregational approaches, this research reveals that organ use often formalizes services, transforming active prayer into passive listening and diminishing congregational participation in favor of choral performance. These changes can trigger community divisions between Conservative and Orthodox congregations and lead to internal conflicts resulting in member disaffiliation. Though organ use remains permissible within Conservative Jewish practice, congregations would benefit from prioritizing spontaneous, participatory worship experiences. Alternative methods of service beautification, particularly enhanced congregational singing, merit consideration before implementing instrumental music.

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Published 1963
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Ben Bokser