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When were our communal prayers established?
The first versions of set prayers and blessings began to appear during the time of the Second Temple and following its destruction. Ever since, public or communal prayers are recited in the plural, and are made by and for the entire people of Israel.
As the Mishnah mentions, the central set prayer established during this time was the Amidah (Standing Prayer) or Shemoneh-Esrei (Eighteen Blessings). Later, communal prayers were further defined and discussed by the Sages. However, there were no siddurim (prayer books) like we use today. Instead, the shaliach tzibur (prayer leader) recited the set prayers on behalf of the congregation.
The Jewish emphasis on communal prayer is reflected in the distinctive requirement for a minyan – a quorum of at least ten adults – to carry out certain religious obligations.
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