Tefillah Outlined

Explanation of לכו נרננה, where we begin קבלת שבת calling upon the Jews (specifically in גלות) to commitment themselves to service of ה׳ and recognize the unique relationship they have with him.

Introduction to קבלת השבת, exploring its origins and development as well as the perceptions of כבוד and חביב as we enter שבת.

Reflections on the structure and themes of מעריב, as time where we express our trust in Hashem during our physical and preverbal night.

Discussion of סמיכות גאולה תפילה of מעריב and its relationship to the fact that תפילת מעריב רשות, understanding that תפילה not just enhanced by the גאולה that was just recited, but arguably, mainly a means of manifesting the expression of trust and commitment before Hashem which we developed during the ברכות של קריאת שמע של מעריב.

Explanation of the origins of ברוך ה׳ לעולם, where we express our relationship and trust in Hashem, ultimately manifesting in the גאולה and global appreciation of Hashem's מלכות.

Explanation of השכיבנו both its connection to גאולה as a separate ברכה in מעריב, where we express our trust in Hashem as we request both protection from physical and assistance in spiritual matters.

Explanation of אמת ואמונה, where we express our commitment and trust in Hashem as the Redeemer of our personal and national life.

Explanation of אהבת עולם, where we focus on the loving relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people especially though the medium of the Torah.

Explanation of the first ברכה of ברכות קריאת שמע של מעריב, המעריב ערבים, where we praise Hashem for creation primarily nighttime and controlling night and day as well as the metaphorical night and day with the ushering in of the גאולה העתידה and ultimate judgement of evil.

Introduction to מעריב, discussing the origins of מעריב, timeframe, obligation and structure.