Patterns of Social Organization in the Sabbath and Holy Day Services of the Karaite Community in Israel

Abstract

Traditional Karaite Music plays a significant role in the preservation of the Karaite heritage. Liturgical music, as performed throughout services in the Karaite synagogues in Israel, is not only a religious deed, but also a means of preserving cultural identity. Thus, the synagogue functions as a religious and communal center, as well as a place of assembly. The participants during the services not only pray, but socially interact, thus reflecting the communal organization. This study focuses on social behavior within the Karaite synagogue, during defined settings of prayers. It stresses ordinary, daily performances, and illustrates the Karaite concept of liturgical music, its performance practices, melodic repertoire and text-music relationships.