Photo Credit: Jewish Press

A Matter Of Concentration

The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chayim 90:23) states that even though it is permitted to have paintings of non-celestial images, a person should not pray facing such a painting. The Rema (ad loc.) explains that the images will disturb his concentration and devotion. The Magen Avraham (ad loc.) comments, accordingly, that it is forbidden to paint pictures (of any type) on synagogue’s walls unless they are higher than worshipers’ direct view.

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RABBI YAAKOV KLASS, rav of Congregation K’hal Bnei Matisyahu in Flatbush, Brooklyn, is Torah Editor of The Jewish Press. He can be contacted at [email protected]. RABBI GERSHON TANNENBAUM, rav of Congregation Bnai Israel of Linden Heights, Boro Park, Brooklyn, is the Director of Igud HaRabbanim – The Rabbinical Alliance of America.