יסוד תקנת אמירת ברכת שהחיינו

This broad analysis of Birchas HaGomel takes a modern focus: Does a domestic flight over water trigger this blessing? An international one over land? What about a missed flight that crashes? A look at the basic laws and rational behind Gomel lays the foundation to determine when and why the blessing is required. (See also Thanking G-d for Goodness Part II)

The recitation of Kaddish is a central Jewish mourning rite. Mourners recite Kaddish for eleven months following the death of a loved one. What is the meaning of the prayer and the details of its observance? Why is it recited for specifically eleven months?

אמן׳ – מלה בת שלושה אותיות בלבד הטומנת בתוכה פנינים ומרגליות גם מתורת הנסתר והקבלה. מאמר המשך זה – פרק שני – בגדולתה של עניית אמן סוקר את סוד פעולת הברכה בעולם הספירות ועד המשכתה למטה על ידי עניית אמן. גדול העונה

What defines a “dangerous scenario” for which one must recite birkas hagomel? This paper addresses the questions and challenges introduced by air travel, and defines the types of illnesses and levels of recovery that require the gomel blessing.

Beseeching the Creator for His benevolence and salvation is a practice of universal import and value. But how did the uniquely Jewish form of prayer evolve? What was the process by which the first siddurim were designed?

Part II in a Series

As an expression of honor and submission, bowing before an authority has always been common. In Jewish prayer, numerous segments are associated with bowing and prostration. What are some of the reasons for bowing during the recital of Modeh Ani, Barchu, the Amida, Aleinu and during the Yom Kippur service?