How to Pray Shacharit: A Step-by-Step Morning Prayer Guide

Shacharit is the Jewish morning prayer service, traditionally attributed to Abraham who would pray to God each morning. The name comes from the Hebrew word 'shachar' meaning dawn. It is one of the three daily prayer services in Judaism and is considered the longest and most elaborate of the daily prayers.

The ideal time to begin Shacharit is at sunrise (netz hachamah), though it may be recited from dawn (alot hashachar) until the end of the fourth hour of the day. The fourth hour is calculated as one-third of the daylight hours. If you miss this time, the Amidah can still be recited until midday (chatzot).

Begin your day with the morning blessings. These blessings thank God for the gift of a new day and the restoration of the soul. They include blessings for being able to see, walk, and be clothed. Traditionally recited upon waking, these blessings can also be said at the beginning of the Shacharit service.

Pesukei D'Zimra is a collection of Psalms and verses of praise that prepare the heart and mind for prayer. It begins with Baruch She'amar and concludes with Yishtabach. The main body includes Psalms 145-150 (Ashrei through the final Halleluyah psalms). This section helps transition from the mundane world to a spiritual mindset.

The Shema is the central declaration of Jewish faith: 'Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One.' It is surrounded by blessings - two before (discussing God's creation of light and His love for Israel) and one after (recalling the Exodus). When reciting the first verse of Shema, cover your eyes to aid concentration and accept upon yourself the yoke of Heaven.

The Amidah is the central prayer of all Jewish services. During Shacharit, it contains 19 blessings on weekdays (7 on Shabbat and holidays). Stand facing Jerusalem, feet together, and recite it quietly. Begin by taking three steps forward as if approaching God. The Amidah includes praise, requests, and thanksgiving. Conclude by taking three steps backward, bowing, and asking for peace.

Tachanun is a prayer of supplication and confession recited after the Amidah on weekdays. It is omitted on Shabbat, holidays, and certain joyous occasions. The prayer includes the confession of sins and requests for mercy. On Mondays and Thursdays, an extended version is recited.

On Mondays and Thursdays, the Torah is read during Shacharit. Three people are called up to the Torah, and the first portion of the upcoming Shabbat's parsha is read. This custom dates back to Ezra the Scribe and ensures Jews never go three days without hearing Torah.

The service concludes with Ashrei (Psalm 145), Uva L'Tzion (a prayer of redemption), Aleinu (accepting God's sovereignty), and the Psalm of the Day. On certain days, additional prayers like Hallel or Musaf are added. The mourner's Kaddish is recited by those in mourning.

If you're new to Shacharit, start small. Begin with just the Shema and Amidah, then gradually add other sections. Use a siddur (prayer book) with translation and instructions. Don't worry about speed - understanding and intention (kavanah) are more important. Consider finding a synagogue or study partner to help you learn. The Am Hazak app includes all these prayers with clear formatting and translations.