kedushah

Kedushah, from the Hebrew word kedushah meaning holiness, has both a liturgical and a broader theological sense in Judaism. In prayer, Kedushah refers to a central sanctification of God’s name within the Amidah, recited as part of the service’s repetition by the prayer leader. The congregation ordinarily stands and focuses on the moment as the holiest portion of the service.

Musically and textually, Kedushah is built around scriptural imagery of sanctity. It includes the threefold declaration of holiness, commonly inspired by Isaiah 6:3, and proceeds with verses affirming God’s sovereignty and glory. The portion typically concludes with the phrase “Baruch Shem Kavod Malchuto Le’olam Va’ed” (Blessed be the name of His glorious kingdom forever), which may be proclaimed aloud by the leader and, in many traditions, echoed by the congregation in some form.

Variations exist among Jewish communities. Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and other rites have different textual editions and minor procedural differences, and some communities may recite a shorter form in certain services. Nevertheless, Kedushah is generally regarded as an elevated, sanctifying moment within the Amidah, signaling a transition to a closing portion of the prayer.

Beyond liturgy, kedushah also denotes holiness in a broader ethical sense, including the concept of Kiddush Hashem—sanctifying God’s name through virtuous conduct and steadfast faith, even under persecution. The term thus encompasses both the formal prayer element and wider theological-ethical ideals.