Question: I see some men cover themselves with
a tallis during duchaning, while others turn around so as not
face the kohanim. What are we supposed to do?
Answer: The Gemara (Sotah 38a) stipulates
that the kohanim must face the community while duchaning.
Consequently, the Shulchan Aruch (OC 128:23) advises that everyone
should face the kohanim without staring and focus on the beracha.
R’ Moshe Feinstein (Igros Moshe OC 5:20:23) notes that one can adjust
their position during the amida to face the kohanim.
The Gemara (Chagiga 16a) forbids looking at the kohanim
in the Beis Hamikdash as the shechina rested upon their hands
while pronouncing the shem hameforash, which could cause a person's eyes
to grow dim. However, the Magen Avraham (128:35) and Mishna Berura
(128:89) note this reason no longer applies. Instead, Rambam (Tefilla Ubirchas
Kohanim 14:7) and Tosafos (Chagiga 16a) explain that watching the kohanim
can be distracting. Accordingly, the Magen Avraham and Mishna Berura
suggest that one may briefly glance at the kohanim nowadays.
Nonetheless, the minhag is to avoid looking as a zecher of the duchaning
in the Beis Hamikdash.
The Rema (OC 128:23) records the minhag of kohanim
covering their hands with their tallis to prevent people from
looking at them. The Aruch Hashulchan (OC 128:36) recommends this
practice as ideal, while the Mishna Berura (128:92) notes that in some
places the minhag was for the tzibbur to cover their faces
instead.
R’ Moshe Feinstein (Igros Moshe OC 5:24:4) points out
that nowadays, with the universal minhag being for the kohen to
cover his hands with his tallis, there is no concern about seeing them.
One not wearing a tallis should follow along in their siddur or
look downwards to avoid distraction (see Mishna Berura 128:115).
In conclusion, there is a minhag not to look at the kohanim's
hands during duchaning, though there is no issue if one inadvertently
sees them. While those who wear a tallis typically cover themselves with
it, there is no need for others to cover their eyes, especially as the kohanim
cover their hands nowadays. To avoid distraction, it is advisable to follow
along in one’s siddur or look downwards, but not to turn away from the kohanim.
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