Are people standing behind the Kohanim included in the blessing?
Synopsis
The Mechaber rules that people standing behind the Kohanim are not included in the blessing, while those in front or to the sides — even with an iron partition — are included. Even those behind the Kohanim are included if they are compelled (onus), such as field workers unable to attend. The Taz discusses the practical issue that in many synagogues, those standing near the eastern wall are technically behind the Kohanim. The Biur Halacha adds that even someone at home not attending synagogue is not included unless genuinely compelled.
More in Birkat Kohanim — Detailed Laws
What is the minimum quorum required for Birkat Kohanim (the Priestly Blessing)?
2 opinions
May a non-Kohen (zar) perform Birkat Kohanim?
3 opinions across 3 eras
How many positive commandments does a Kohen who skips Birkat Kohanim violate?
2 opinions
If a Kohen has already performed Birkat Kohanim once that day, does he violate a commandment by not going up again?
1 opinions
Must Kohanim who do not wish to perform Birkat Kohanim remain outside the synagogue?
1 opinions
May Kohanim ascend the platform wearing shoes?
3 opinions
Must Kohanim wash their hands again before Birkat Kohanim even if they washed in the morning?
2 opinions
When must a Kohen begin moving toward the platform (uproot his feet)?
1 opinions
Related from other topics
What should one say if one cannot finish the 'Ribono Shel Olam' before the Kohanim finish their blessing?
Birkat Kohanim Outside the Temple
Do people riding together on animals constitute a group for blessing?
HaMotzi Blessing
Is sitting with righteous people, standing in holy places, or walking in upright counsel praiseworthy if done for personal enjoyment rather than for the sake of Heaven?
All Actions for the Sake of Heaven
May a person standing outside the synagogue behind a window (facing the congregation) count toward the minyan?
Blessings Before Shema
Should the closing phrase 'Ohr Chadash al Tzion Ta'ir' (a new light shall shine upon Zion) be included in the Yotzer blessing?
Posture During Shema
If one spoke idle words between the sitting and standing shofar blasts, must one go back and recite a new blessing?
Tashlich Ceremony
Discussion
Discussion coming soon.
The Daily Law
One question. Every opinion. Every morning.
A new halakhic question and the full spectrum of rabbinic thought, delivered daily.