5. The Rise of the Chazzan

Question 1

How were prayers remembered in Talmudic times?

Answer 1

1. Collection of prayers became more standardized, preserved by memory
2. Assistants would remind the chazzan the prayers and assist in singing

Question 2

When did writing of prayer become permitted

Answer 2

in the 7th century

Question 3

What are the 9 qualifications for a Shliach Tzibbur?

Answer 3

1. Sweet voice
2. A man with family obligations who is struggling to make a livelihood
3. Someone who is above reproach (doesn’t sin)
4. Is humble and pleasant
5. Is acceptable to the people
6. Well-versed in Bible, midrash, halacha and agadah
7. Expert in all blessings
8. Wears clean and standard garments
9. Has no speech defects

Question 4

Where was the Shliach Tzibbur placed?

Answer 4

placed lower than the rest of the shul to show humility

Question 5

Why was the bimah placed in the center of shul?

Answer 5

to remember the the Torah was given on Har Sinai.

Question 6

Historical development affecting the shliach tzibur

Answer 6

persecution around the Bzantine period caused decline of Jewish knowledge, more need for a professional shaliach tzibbur to officiate.
Introduction of piyutim during 7th century

Question 7

The rise of the Chazzan

Answer 7

originally was the community caretaker, eventually referred specifically to the overseer of the shul, in the 6th-7th century for the lack of able men, the overseer became the shliach tzibbur.