Shemoneh Esrei – Amida in an Abridged Form

Abridged Prayers

Prayer is an essential connection to our Creator, yet lengthy prayers can often be a challenge in our daily lives. Throughout Jewish history, scholars have worked to ensure that prayer remains accessible and meaningful. The Abridged Shemoneh Esrei preserves the core elements of this foundational prayer, offering a concise version that retains its essence.

The Shemoneh Esrei, also known as the Amidah, is the central prayer of Jewish life. Traditionally recited three times daily, it contains blessings of praise, requests, and gratitude. However, many find it difficult to complete due to time constraints or other circumstances.
Throughout history, Rabbis have sought ways to ensure that prayer remains accessible without compromising its core meaning. This abridged format is based on the Or Zarua (Chelek A:90). Our father, Rabbi Yitzhak Abadi, encouraged me to work diligently to create a shortened version that aligns with halachic principles while making it easier for everyone to recite with intention.
This version preserves the essence of the Amidah while reducing its length, allowing individuals to focus on its meaning rather than feeling overwhelmed by its duration. It may be used in place of the full-length version whenever one chooses, ensuring that the beauty of prayer remains within reach for all.