A cantor who leads the singing and prayers in a Jewish synagogue during religious services.
From Hebrew chazzan, meaning originally 'one who sees' or a synagogue official. The word evolved from the Hebrew root meaning to look or oversee, as the cantor was responsible for leading the congregation in prayer.
The role of chazzen is so important in Jewish tradition that famous ones became celebrities—the best chazzens traveled between cities like rock stars, and their vocal techniques were studied and imitated for generations.
Alternative form of chazan/chazzan (cantor). Same gendered etymology: male-exclusive religious role in Jewish tradition.
Use for cantor of any gender. Prefer 'cantor' or 'hazzan' to avoid masculine assumptions.
["cantor","hazzan","liturgical leader"]
Modern women chazzenim represent historical expansion of previously male-only liturgical leadership.
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