Question 72: Why do Jews face the east when praying?

Answer:

In Jerusalem, the Jews always turned their faces toward the "holy hill" of the temple while praying (see Daniel 6:10; 2 Chronicles 6:34). The Samaritans, on the contrary, faced Mount Gerizim. In the court of the temple, the Jews in prayer faced the temple itself (see 1 Kings 8:38) to the Holy of Holies (see Psalm 5:8). Daniel while praying in exile, opened his window toward Jerusalem (see Daniel 6:10). Modern Jews in Europe and America customarily face the East in prayer. It was a custom among the early believers to face the East but that has long been discontinued by the Catholics. Mohammedans face in the direction of Mecca.