סוד עניית אמן. פרק א

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.

G-d’s benevolence is all around us. Every day we experience divine salvation whether we know it or not. But sometimes these events truly transcend the natural order for which we owe G-d an additional debt of gratitude.
What is the appropriate way to express thanks to G-d when experiencing deliverance from danger? Is it preferable to do so discreetly or is a public celebration in order? What is the basis for the common custom of inviting friends to participate in a Seudas Hoda’ah (feast of gratitude)?
Related: Thanking G-d for Goodness Parts I and II

Find out what is required of one who prays when it comes to focusing one’s mind on the Almighty. To what degree is kavanah really necessary? Are there any techniques that provide a shortcut to healthy kavanah?

Part IV in a Series

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

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?