Chapter 18: 7-8
Laws Pertaining to Shemoneh Esreh
7. A person should not support himself, even to a slight degree, on any
objects during the Shemoneh Esreh. If he is slightly ill, [leniency may be
observed,] and he may pray while sitting or lying down, provided he can
concentrate his attention.
A person who is unable to recite his prayers verbally should at least think
about them within his heart.
8. During the Shemoneh Esreh prayers, a person should hold nothing in his
hands, with the exception of a siddur or Machzor. He should mark off the
places from which he must pray in those texts, so that he will not have to
search for them in the midst of his prayers.
There should not be anything between himself and the wall, as [Isaiah 38:2]
relates: "Hezekiah turned his face to the wall." Nevertheless, an object is
not regarded as separating one from the wall unless it is at least ten
handbreadths high and four handbreadths wide. A small object is not
considered as a separation.
Even a large object is not considered a separation if it is permanently
fixed in place - for example, a closet or cabinet. Another person is also
not considered as forming a separation.
If there is no easy alternative, one need not be concerned with this
matter, as long as one closes one's eyes or prays from a siddur, so that
one's concentration will not be disturbed.
One should not pray facing a picture. A person who happens to pray facing a
tapestry or a picture should close his eyes. It is forbidden to pray facing
a mirror, even when one's eyes are closed.
A person should not pray in an open place, like a field. When he is in a
private place, the awe of the King falls upon him. His heart is broken and
he becomes humble. Nevertheless, while on a journey, it is permissible to
pray in a field. However, if possible, one should pray among the trees.
