In the liturgical poem “Lecha Dodi,” it was customary in Aleppo to skip the stanzas “Hitna’ari,” “Lo Tevoshi,” “Vehayu Limshisa,” and “Yamin U’smol.” This practice stems from several reasons: Some suggest that these stanzas contain themes that evoke sadness. Others argue that since these verses pertain to the theme of redemption, they were omitted by the Jews of Aleppo, who had been previously disillusioned by the episode of Shabbetai Tzvi. He misled them into believing in him through purported proofs of the imminent redemption, leaving a deep mark on the community.

Before the Amidah prayer—known as the Shemoneh Esrei by Syrian Jews—it is customary to look behind and to the sides and gesture respectfully toward those nearby, inviting them to step forward and pray in front. This practice serves as a kind of request for permission, inspired by the behavior of angels who accept the yoke of Heaven from one another, symbolizing unity and fellowship among them.

—Prof. Yaron Harel