Praying On Purpose

When entering a shul, one should not stand too close to the doorway.  Today we explore three interpretations of this halacha, each of which can serve to enhance our prayer experience.  

Of the three daily prayers, our Rabbis urge us to be particularly mindful in our performance of Tefillas Mincha.  Today we explore what makes the afternoon prayer the most consequential of all.

To properly comprehend the most important word in all of our liturgy we must be focused, attentive, and, most importantly, patient.  

One would think that the best way to prepare for davening is by temporarily disconnecting from others, thereby readying oneself for an encounter with God.  In reality, however, we are directed to do just the opposite.  

The morning prayers, inspired by Avraham Avinu, provide us with a unique opportunity to connect with God, and with ourselves, at the start of every day.  

On the surface, addressing the King of Kings as "you" would seem highly inappropriate.  Yet, we do precisely that and thereby demonstrate the extraordinary relationship with have with our Father in heaven.

Standing with one's feet together during davening is a fascinating tradition.  Exploring the origin of this custom enables us to discover new insights and perspectives on prayer.

Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, the founding fathers of daily prayer, introduced three unique templates of tefillah, which serve to enlighten and guide us to this very day.

Perhaps more than anything else, connecting with God is the most challenging aspect of prayer.  One word repeatedly prompts us to remain mindful and focused that we are conversing with another.

Every time we stand in prayer, we approach God by taking three steps forward.  This fascinating custom teaches us much about the focus and goals of prayer.