When is Birkat Cohanim said? Birkat Cohanim is recited during Shacharit, Musaf, and Ne'ilah. However, it is not performed during Mincha. The reason for this is a halachic concern that a Cohen might have consumed wine earlier in the day, and a Cohen who is even slightly intoxicated is forbidden from performing Birkat Cohanim, as it requires a state of clarity and purity.

The Mitzvah of Birkat Kohanim is a biblical commandment (Deorayta) and applies in all places and at all times—even today. It originates from the verse, "דַּבֵּר אֶל-אַהֲרֹן וְאֶל-בָּנָיו לֵאמֹר, כֹּה תְבָרְכוּ אֶת-בְּנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל: אָמוֹר, לָהֶם" — “Speak to Aharon and his sons, saying: This is how you shall bless the Children of Israel.”

What are the halachic guidelines for behavior during Chazarat Hashatz? May one learn during Chazarat Hashatz?Those who are meticulous to fulfill the mitzvah of wearing both Tefillin of Rashi and Tefillin of Rabbenu Tam should be careful not to remove their Rashi Tefillin and put on the Rabbenu Tam Tefillin during Chazarat Hashatz. [1] This is because Chazarat Hashatz requires complete attention and participation, and any form of distraction or interruption even for a mitzvah.

Does one sit or stand during Chazarat HaShatz? There are differing halachic opinions regarding whether one must stand during Chazarat HaShatz. Most Ashkenazic poskim encourage standing throughout the repetition. Among Sephardim, the widespread custom is to sit during Chazarat HaShatz; however, it is considered praiseworthy to stand.

When the Shaliach Tzibbur recites the Chazarat HaShatz, the congregation is obligated to listen attentively and respond with "Amen" at the conclusion of each beracha. This communal response is not merely ceremonial; it is an essential part of the tefillah. If there is no minyan of individuals responding "Amen," the berachot recited by the Shaliach Tzibbur may be considered close to berachot levatalah, blessings said in vain.

Why do we repeat the Shemonah Esrei after the silent amidah? Originally, this enactment was instituted to assist individuals who were unable to pray on their own—either because they lacked the necessary knowledge or the ability to read the prayers properly. The repetition allowed them to fulfill their obligation by listening attentively and answering “Amen” to each blessing.