What is the minimum quorum required for Birkat Kohanim (the Priestly Blessing)?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that Birkat Kohanim requires a minyan of ten, with the Kohanim themselves counted toward that ten. The Mishnah Berurah explains the reason: Kohanim are included in the blessing (based on 'and I will bless them'), and the quorum derives from a gezeirah shavah with the verse about God being sanctified among the children of Israel. The Biur Halacha adds that even if a minyan was present at the start of the repetition of the Amidah but some left before Birkat Kohanim, the blessing cannot be recited; however, if Birkat Kohanim began with ten and some left, it may continue.
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May an individual (not a chazan) recite Birkat Kohanim (the Priestly Blessing) during the Amidah?
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When there are no Kohanim to perform Birkat Kohanim, what blessing should the prayer leader recite as a substitute?
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Should the congregation answer 'Amen' or 'May it be Your will' after the prayer leader's substitute Birkat Kohanim?
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Should the prayer leader recite the substitute Birkat Kohanim formula even when Kohanim are present but not lifting their hands?
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Is saying the substitute Birkat Kohanim formula required l'chatchila (initially), and what happens b'dieved (if omitted)?
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During which prayer services is Birkat Kohanim (Duchanin) performed?
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Discussion
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