One of the "nedarim," or special declamatory variations from the strict see CANTILLATION of the Pentateuch, according to the Northern use. This chant is introduced into the reading which reopens the yearly cycle of pericopes on the Rejoicing of the Law (SIMḤAT TORAH); and it marks the verses which conclude the recital of the work of each of the six days of Creation (Genesis 1:5,8,13,19,23,31). The reader pauses at the end of each verse; and after the congregation has loudly chanted the "Wayehi 'ereb," he repeats the intonation with florid amplification of the melody. Like other nedarim, such as the "Song by the Sea" (Exodus 15; comp. Ashirah) or the "Journeys of the Standards" (Numbers 10:14-16,18-20,22-24,25-28; 33:11-13,15-36,41-47), the present chant is founded on a vocal imitation of a herald's trumpet-call. The accompanying transcription, based on that of Baer, shows the method of its rendering (comp. also "The Voice of Prayer and Praise," No. 168b, London, 1899).
WAYEHI 'EREB (Genesis 1:5)
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