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The Formula for Blessings, Part 1

The Practical

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The Formula for Blessings, Part 1: The Practical

The textual formula for blessings contains some consistent features that are easy to learn.
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Blessing on Food

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5 Comments
Marty Denver April 17, 2013

Nature of gratitude Doesn't the ruling to make a blessing before a meal violate the Torah's command: Deut 13:1 You shall neither add laws to the Torah, nor subtract from it.' Why does G-d only command us to praise Him after we eat? Maybe because He wants the praise to come from our heart. When we are satisfied we say it spontaneously, it's universal, "Thank G-d." G-d knows that before we eat, our mind is on our hunger. He wants us to be aware in the moment. At that time, if you are inspired by the appetizing meal or the company with whom you'll share it, and praise to G-d arises spontaneously, it's a beautiful thing. But to make it mandatory even to the point of what words to use? Doesn't that violate the nature of prayer? Prayer is supposed to reflective, go into your heart, create space there for G-d, and let your gratitude flow naturally. To repeat the same words, how many of you can do that with sincerity? Let your relationship with G-d be renewed with each meal by going within and finding G-d's spark Reply

Tomas Kubin Czech republic April 9, 2013

cookies Dear Rabbi, toda rabbah for this comparison with cookies and children. It suits me and I will use it for my children to tell them about brachas .... Reply

Anonymous Carlsbad April 9, 2013

Excellent class. Thank you! Reply

Suzi Orlando, Fl March 17, 2013

HOW AND WHEN WE MAKE A BLESSING I am not orthodox, and yet I enjoy thoroughly everything I have ever heard, learned, and seen, from Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. He makes everything enjoyable, due to his attitude, committment, and love, of what he does.

I hope I can get the second class now.

Thank you, toda raba Reply

Anonymous Green Bay,Wi March 17, 2013

This talk is an informative reminder to be diligent in observing mitzvoth with delight. Thank you! Reply

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