On Shabbat Vayiqra (Leviticus 1:1- 5:26), Maqam RAST is applied to the prayers, according to the Red Pizmonim Book, and at least 18 other sources. This maqam, defined as 'head' in Arabic (ras), and considered the "father of the maqamat," is always the first maqam used in any collection of Arabic songs. This relates here, as Vayiqra is the first perasha, or head, of Leviticus. This maqam also relates to this Torah portion, because, metaphorically speaking, sacrificing the 'head' of an animal is considered an atonement for one's head. Maqam RAST is also used each Shabbat at Minha services. Sephardic Pizmonim Project, www.pizmonim.com.