Time for Torah with Rabbi Silberberg: Teffilah Shmona Esrei #2
Jul 7, 2022
Rabbi Silberberg dives into the Shemoneh Esrei, tracing its origins and importance after the exile. He breaks down its three-part structure of praise, requests, and thanks. The discussion highlights the distinctions between personal and communal requests, covering the significance of each blessing. A historical lens reveals the motivations behind the addition of the 19th blessing against enemies. The balance between justice and compassion in prayer is also explored, rounding out a deep dive into the richness of this essential prayer.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Rambam Vs. Rabbinic Formulation
- The Rambam holds prayer itself is a Torah obligation but the fixed wording of the Shemona Esrei is rabbinic.
- The Anshei Knesset HaGedola later standardized a universal, unified text for a dispersed people.
Three-Part Prayer Structure
- Shemona Esrei follows a three-part structure: praise, requests, thanks.
- The first three and last three brachot remain on special days while the middle requests are replaced.
Middle Section: 13 Requests
- The middle section of Shemona Esrei begins with Atah Chonen and contains 13 requests.
- It spans from personal needs to national restoration, ending with Shomea Tefilah.