CCAR RESPONSA
New American Reform Responsa
1. Qualifications for a Cantor*
QUESTION: A young man has shown an interest in the cantorial position of the congregation. He has a good voice, fine character and knows Jewish music. His general Jewish knowledge is limited and he knows no Hebrew. Our services contain a fair amount of Hebrew and, of course, he would represent Judaism in the general community. Is it appropriate to engage him with the title of cantor? (Rabbi Robert A. Seigel, Charlotte NC)ANSWER: The term hazan was used in the Talmud to designate a number of different positions not all related to the service. The synagogue hazan looked after the lights of the synagogues, cared for the Torah scrolls, sounded a horn or trumpet to announce the beginning of shabbat and holidays, and guided visitors in the synagogues of Jerusalem (J Maaseh Sheni 56a; M Sotah 7.7 f; J Meg IV 15b, 75b; M Sotah VII 21d; Tos Bik 2.10). At times the hazan seems to have also been a teacher, a sheliah tzibur and a darshan especially in smaller congregations (J Yeb 13a; Midrash Rabbah Gen 81). In the Saboraic or Gaonic period when services presumably became more complex, the hazan became the permanent sheliah tzibur (Sofrim 10.7 11.3), so it was possible for Amram Gaon to state that a congregation should find a qualified sheliah tzibur for itself (Theshu-vot Hagaonim (ed) Blick #84; Solomon ben Aderet Responsa I #450, 691). In later centuries hazanim frequently led services especially in the larger congregations. The qualifications for those who lead the prayers whether paid or voluntary are basically the same. They were originally outlined by the Mishnah which demanded maturity, knowledge of the Hebrew prayers, a family with children and enough need to be able to pray sincerely (M Taanit 2.1). In the Talmudic discussion of this verse, Judah Ben Ilai added a number of other stipulations which required good character from youth onward, a pleasant voice and that he be a farmer dependent upon the rain for which he would, among other things, pray. He was also to possess a thorough knowledge of the entire Bible which included the Torah, the prophets and writings, along with mastery of the midrashic and legal literature and, of course, the liturgy (M Taanit 16a). Some of the medieval authors emphasized other characteristics so, for example, Maimonides stressed modesty, probity, good deeds within and outside the city and if possible good lineage (Responsa (ed) Freiman #86). On the other hand, Meir of Rothenburg argued for life experiences which would enable him to pray with real feelings (Responsa #137), while Solomon ben Aderet emphasized a feeling of the reverence and awe in the presence of God (Responsa 1 215). These and other sources both ancient and modern as summarized in the Tur and Shulhan Arukh (Orah Hayim 53) dealt with the spiritual, moral and educational qualifications of a hazan. Although scholarship was desirable, personal character was more important. Naturally a pleasing voice and the ability to give meaning to the prayers was always considered important (Ibid). However, even those who felt that the cantor need not be excessively learned or an expert in the Bible and the later legal literature, insisted on sufficient knowledge of Hebrew to understand all the prayers and to chant the Torah without difficulty (Tur and Shulhan Arukh Orah Hayim 53 and commentaries). The main problem connected with hazanim in the halakhic literature dealt with moral issues, styles of music and liturgical innovations. The qualifications mentioned above were accepted in all periods of Jewish history. Although many of our prayers are in English, a large number are recited in Hebrew and these are increasing. Furthermore, as a representative of the congregation in the larger community, an adequate knowledge of Hebrew and of all areas of Jewish studies is necessary. It may be possible to engage the individual in question as a cantorial soloist and encourage him to acquire sufficient knowledge to become a hazan and to enter that honored profession. We should remember that in modern times professional education which meets certain standards has become required. There are also professional associations which have established standards. Congregations should be encouraged to seek such standards in a candidate. The congregation may wish to provide some scholarship incentives to this able young man.February 1988
If needed, please consult Abbreviations used in CCAR Responsa.