Ritual Sense

In ancient times, the rabbis feared things that go bump in the night, and we are the recipients of their spiritual soothing: the Hashkiveinu prayer. This episode may help if you struggle to fall sleep, or are simply looking for a way to complete your day. To supplement your experience, check out:

How do we sustain our sense of connection, grounded-ness and gratitude throughout the day? One way is to use food blessings: simple statements that enable us to think about the specific source of our nourishment. 

For the specific blessings prior to eating, visit: https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/blessings-for-food-drink/

For the Birkat HaMazon (the Grace after Meals), visit: https://reformjudaism.org/beliefs-practices/prayers-blessings/daily-blessings-birkat-hamazon-grace-after-meals-long-version

For the blessings quiz I mention in the episode, visit: https://www.brachos.org/brachos-flash-cards/

Why Ashrei almost stopped me from applying to rabbinical school, and why I believe its very first word says a lot about where we might focus our attention as part of our daily routine. In this episode:

What would you do if you knew the steps to a happy life? The Talmud contains such a list, and it has been included in the Jewish morning prayer service. We call it "Eilu Devarim," or "these are the actions," and it's a list you can review every morning to set you on your way. Referenced on this episode:

Part of the genius of Jewish blessings is the opportunity to see every single possible moment as a chance to find meaning. In this episode, we explore the Nisim B'Chol Yom, a series of blessings to recite in the morning to acknowledge our "daily miracles": from stretching, to sitting upright, to tying our shoes. For more, check out:

Whether you're attending your first seder and not sure what to expect, or you want to add a new schmear of insight onto last year's box of matzah, this special Passover episode has got you covered.

In Judaism, we don't worship our bodies. But we do marvel at the ways in which they function, and each morning we take a moment to consider how we will put them to use during the day. This episode features "Asher Yatzar" and "Elohai," composed by Debbie Friedman, and "V'Asu Li (Sanctuary)," sung by Cantor Julian Cadrain. Additional resources:

* An alternative Asher Yatzar, by Rabbi Emily Aviva Kapor

* a thesis on chronic illness by Emily Aronson: "From Curing to Crying"

* a reflection on Asher Yatzar, by Rabbi Sandra Lawson

* a video on Al Netilat Yadayim

How ought we start our day? The "Modeh Ani" ritual is jam-packed with imagery and symbolism that can instill a sense of gratitude, humility, vitality and motivation to our morning. Not bad for 12 words. 

The Kaddish is an ancient Aramaic prayer originally said at the end of a study session. Is it really equipped to serve as our central prayer of mourning? Featuring the music of Miqedem ("Adonai Ro'i") and Elana Arian ("Nachamu"). Also referenced in this episode:

Even for those who struggle with the idea of the Divine, praying for healing has become a stable of the Jewish prayer service. What exactly does the "Mi Shebeirach" prayer request, and what can its message teach us? Featuring "Heal Us Now" by Leon Sher, "Mi Shebeirach" by Debbie Friedman, z''l, and "Refa Na," by Yair Levi and Shai Sol.

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