Decoding Jewish Liturgical Poetry

If the decline of idolatry coincided with a perception of God that was less immanent, and an emphasis on prayer over prophecy, then perhaps it would make sense that a golden age of Jewish liturgical poetry began around the same time that the rabbis became aware they were living in a post-pagan era. This time of year, these intricate works, known in Hebrew as piyyutim (singular, piyyut) play an especially important role in the synagogue service: making up the penitential prayers said in advance of Rosh Hashanah, and much of the High Holy Day liturgy itself. Tzvi Novick discusses the history and significance of this genre with J.J. Kimche. (Audio, 58 minutes.)