Most hold that when praying in a synagogue that was built facing a direction other than Jerusalem, one should nevertheless turn toward Jerusalem while praying.7 One who is unable to determine the correct direction should direct his heart to his Father in heaven, as it is written, “And they shall pray to G‑d.” 8 9 When Jews pray facing east, they are doing much more than turning to the Promised Land’s capital. In Times of Sin In Daniel 9:1-20 we find Daniel praying both for his own sins as well as the Apparently, in some sense it can. Facing Jerusalem Can a geographical place on earth really be a dwelling place for an infinite God? Like a spiritual homing device that zeroes in on its target, the soul of the Jew is programmed to seek its … Daniel 6:10 - Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime. Finally, 1 Thessalonians 5:17-18 reads, "Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." This is not saying that God doesn’t hear people's prayer if they do not pray toward the Temple Mount in Jerusalem (God is everywhere). He believed that the Almighty God of this universe loves to hear & answer the humble and sincere cries of His people who are seeking His help Several months ago Josh and Amy showed me a booklet that their pastor had prepared for their church. As we stand and say the Shemoneh Esrei (also called the Amidah) and the Shema we join many many others around the world in facing toward Jerusalem. Why did Daniel pray? 1Kings establishes that anybody who prays facing Jerusalem will receive forgiveness and answered prayers. WHY JERUSALEM?