| Home |Breishith |Shmot |Vayikra |BaMidbar |Dvarim |Holidays |Tehillim |Stories |
| Va'Etchanan: Introducing Prayer with Praise |
Moses' Prayer
The Torah records Moses' prayer to God to be allowed to enter into the land of Israel:
Rabbi Simlai analyzed Moses' prayer, breaking it up into two components:
We need to understand this statement. Is it simply a matter of
flattering God, just as one might 'butter up' a mortal king before
making a request? Or is there a a deeper significance to this
protocol for prayer?
How does Prayer Work?
Rav Kook explained that Rabbi Simlai's counsel relates to the very
foundations of prayer and its efficacy. Following this model of prayer
prevents us from grossly misinterpreting the mechanics of prayer.
One might think that prayer is some sort of magic loophole built
into the framework of Divine providence, and that by pleading our case
it is possible to cause God to 'change His mind.' The idea that it is
possible to influence God's will, however, is untenable.
Rather, we should view prayer as a wonderful gift that enables us to
refine and uplift ourselves. Prayer does not effect a change in God
or the world around us; prayer effects a change in us. It is only by
virtue of the soul's moral and spiritual elevation that prayer has
the power to annul harsh decrees. We cannot change the basic universal
order manifested in a particular decree. But we can change ourselves,
and in turn, the relevant decrees of nature.
Thus it is advisable to introduce every prayer with praise of God.
Such praise affirms God's eternal nature and ensures a correct
understanding of the efficacy of prayer.
Even Moses
It is noteworthy that Rabbi Simlai's insight was gleaned from a careful
examination of Moses' prayer. One might consider himself above making
such a mistake regarding the nature of prayer. Yet we find that even
Moses, despite his unparalleled knowledge of spiritual matters, took care to introduce his
request with praise of God. Certainly we should follow Moses' lead,
thereby ensuring that we correctly grasp the true nature of prayer.
(Adapted from Ein Eyah vol. I, p. 147)
Copyright © 2006 by Chanan Morrison
"O God, Eternal! You have begun to show me Your greatness and power.
What force is there in heaven or earth that can perform deeds and
mighty acts as You can? Please, let me cross (the Jordan river) and see the good land...."
(Deut. 3:24-25)
This, Rabbi Simlai explained, is a model for all prayers: one
should begin by praising God, and only afterwards present one's
requests. (Berachot 32a)