Discussions on Prayer

In this lesson we learn verse by verse the profound meaning embedded in this first prayer of praise, known as Hodu. We also uncover some deeper mystical messages contained in these verses.

The very beginning of the formal prayer service starts with ‘Hodu’, a prayer of song and praise. Rabbi Kaplan presents a general outline of the structure and sections of Tefillah, which provides insight into why we begin specifically with Hodu.

Prior to the formal prayer service, we recite the minor Shema prayers declaring G-d’s oneness. We proceed to state Torah passages related to the Temple service, both the animal and incense offerings—and engage in minimal Torah study.

In this lesson we take a look at the famous Adon Olam prayer, which describes G-d’s absolute sovereignty. Next, we reflect on the covenant and special merit of our patriarch, and specifically the Binding of Isaac.

In this lesson we explore the importance to prepare ourselves before we begin to pray, and why it’s necessary to verbally express our prayers. We preface the introductory prayers with a commitment to love our fellow Jew, which is followed by words of ‘Ma Tovu’ (the impact of a shul).

In this lesson we discuss the final touch in the series of morning blessings, which includes the supplementary prayer beseeching G-d to alleviate our challenges in life. We continue with the blessings for the gift of Torah.

In this lesson we examine the succession of morning blessings, which express our thanksgiving for many special gifts we’re granted on a daily basis. We also don’t shy away from openly discussing the more controversial blessings at the end.

In this lesson we probe the deeper meaning of the blessing ‘Elokay Neshamah’, which acknowledges and thanks G-d for granting us life and a divine soul. We then proceed to explore the subsequent morning blessings of gratitude.

In this lesson we take a closer look at the standard wording of all blessings and also offer an additional reason for the ritual of morning hand-washing. Next, follows a fascinating discussion on the blessing of ‘Asher Yatzar”, which describes the wonders of the human body.

In this lesson we look at the rationale for us blessing G-d in general and specifically in the morning, why Hebrew is the preferred language for prayer, and the layers of meaning to the ritual hand washing in the morning.