An essential element of Chanukah is Hoda’ah, and it accordingly becomes a highly propitious time for us to bli neder undertake some improvement in Brachos.  In Chassidic circles, the Pasuk Hodu LaHashem Ki Tov Ki LeOlam Chasdo is explained as follows:  If you may it a practice of giving thanks to Hashem for the goodness He bestows upon you–then you will see His Chessed upon you forever and ever!

More food for thought

On Chanukah, we celebrate not only the defeat of the Greeks, but also our staunch dedication against the Greek influence.  It is interesting to note that the Chofetz Chaim, in his explanation of the Siddur, writes that the brocha of “Sheloh Asani Goy” is intended to cover not only that we were not born into other nations, but also that we don’t have the same conduct and thoughts as the other nations.  Chanukah is the right time for us to evaluate our conduct–have we allowed into our mind or home something that would taint this brocha?  Some nice inner reflection may be in order.  In any event, a nice avodah over Chanukah would be to recite this bracha with a special thanks, and with a silent prayer, that we not be influenced in a negative way by the world around us, so that each and every one of us can fulfill our important special mission in life.

Hakhel

Posted by hayld@mac.com on Wednesday, March 15th, 2017 @ 9:09AM
Categories: Prayer and Praise