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As part of the priests’ mission to serve the community in spiritual matters, there is a mitzva for them to bless the people. As it says, “The Lord said to Moses: Speak to Aaron and his sons: Thus shall you bless the people of Israel. Say to them: May the Lord bless you and protect you. May the Lord deal kindly and graciously with you. May the Lord bestow His favor upon you and grant you peace” (Numbers 6:22-27). Being blessed with these very words inculcates the people with faith that all blessing comes from God.
Before reciting the blessing, the priests must have clean hands. It is customary for Levites to wash the priests’ hands. The priests remove their shoes, face the congregation, and raise their hands when reciting the blessing. They must raise their voices so everyone can hear. The people should stand facing the priests and concentrate on the blessing. People who are behind the priests or who turn their backs to them are excluding themselves from the blessing. The blessing is directed to the entire Jewish people, so women, children and others who are not in the synagogue because they are exempt from praying there are still included. Similarly, those men who are unable to attend because of something pressing are also included.
