Core Prayers #7: Washing Our Hands - Infusing Meaning into Our Daily Activities

Core Prayers with Rabbi Ari Herzog

In this insightful episode of "Core Prayers," Rabbi Ari Herzog explores the profound significance of the hand-washing ritual and its accompanying blessing:

• Introduction to the concept of 100 daily blessings
• Deep dive into the blessing "Al Netilat Yadayim"
• Understanding "Baruch Ata Hashem" as recognizing God as the source of all blessings
• The two types of blessings: for food (Birchat HaNehenin) and for mitzvot
• Significance of "Asher Kidishanu B'mitzvotav" in connecting us to holiness
• Reasons for washing hands in the morning:
  1. Emulating the priests in the Holy Temple
  2. Purifying hands for daily activities and mitzvot
  3. Removing spiritual impurity after sleep
  4. Practical hygiene
• Detailed procedure for proper hand-washing
• The Chabad custom of washing hands twice in the morning
• Exploring the meaning of "Netilat" as both taking and elevating
• How this ritual dedicates our hands and actions to meaningful purpose

Rabbi Herzog illuminates how this seemingly simple morning ritual carries deep spiritual significance, connecting us to ancient traditions while infusing our daily activities with purpose and meaning. He explains how the act of washing our hands can be a powerful reminder to dedicate our actions to positive purposes and spiritual growth.

Join us to discover how this daily practice can set the tone for your entire day, helping you approach your activities with greater mindfulness and spiritual intention.