Reciting 'By the Rivers of Babylon' during the Meal
This question and answer were automatically translated using our trained AI and have not yet been reviewed by a qualified rabbi. Please treat this translation with caution.
go to original →
Question
Hello, In the Birkat Hamazon on weekdays, Ashkenazi tradition, 'By the Rivers of Babylon...' is recited before the blessing. 1. Is the purpose of this preface to remember the destruction and exile during the meal? 2. What is the source of the words in this passage? Are they from the Tanach?
Answer
Hello
The purpose of reciting this psalm is to remember the destruction of Jerusalem during the meal.
On weekdays, 'By the Rivers of Babylon' is recited, where prayer and sorrow over the destruction are mentioned, and on Shabbat and holidays, Jerusalem is remembered with hope for redemption, in the chapter 'A Song of Ascents, When the Lord Brought Back the Captivity of Zion'.
The source of the chapter you mentioned is Psalms, Chapter 137.
Source
Psalms 137,
Mishna Berura, Siman 1, S"K 11
The Shlah wrote that at every meal one should say 'By the Rivers of Babylon', and on Shabbat and days when Tachanun is not recited, one should say 'A Song of Ascents, When the Lord Brought Back the Captivity of Zion'.