Question: What are the origins of the Un'tane Tokef prayer recited on Rosh Hashanah?
Dear Rabbi,
I am relatively new to Judaism and joined a small choir at the congregation I attend. We are preparing for the high holy days. I am interested in learning more about the origins of the song "Un'tane Tokef". Our cantor told us a story of it being sung by a man being tortured because he did not want to convert. Is this really true? How can I learn more about the history and meaning of this piece.
Thank you, Leon
Answer: Dear Leon,
About 1,000 years ago in Mainz, Germany, the town bishop insisted that his friend and advisor, Rabbi Ammon, convert to Christianity. In order to buy time, the rabbi asked for 3 days to think about it. Upon returning home, Rabbi Ammon was so distraught that he had even given the impression of considering abandoning his Jewish faith, that he spent those 3 days fasting and praying for forgiveness.
After 3 days, the bishop demanded an answer. Rabbi Ammon said that his tongue should be cut out for saying he would consider the matter. Furious, the bishop instead ordered that his legs be chopped off, then his hands, joint by joint. But Rabbi Ammon never gave in.
When Rosh Hashana arrived a few days later, the crippled Rabbi Ammon asked to be carried to the Ark. He recited his own words of prayer, and then died on the spot. This prayer is what we say today on Rosh Hashana, known as "Un'tane tokef." (Source: Artscroll Machzor)
With blessings from Jerusalem,
Rabbi Shraga Simmons
