Core Prayers with Rabbi Ari Herzog

In this enlightening episode of our core prayer series, Rabbi Ari Herzog invites you to explore the nuanced distinction between happiness and joy. As we delve into the morning blessings, we uncover timeless teachings that emphasize the importance of kindness, gratitude, and the boundless pursuit of Torah study. With insights drawn from the Mishnah and rich spiritual traditions, you will discover how true joy is an internal state that transcends life’s external circumstances. Join us to reflect on your own spiritual journey and embrace the deeper meanings that can enrich your everyday life.

What is Core Prayers with Rabbi Ari Herzog?

Welcome to "Core Prayers" with Rabbi Ari Herzog from Chabad of the Valley and recorded every morning at Chabad of Encino. In this enlightening podcast, we'll explore the heart of Jewish prayer and its profound relevance to our daily lives.
Join Rabbi Ari as he breaks down essential prayers, unveiling their deeper meanings and showing how these ancient words can guide us through modern challenges. Whether you're seeking spiritual growth, practical wisdom, or a deeper connection to tradition, "Core Prayers" offers insights for everyone.
Tune in to discover how the timeless teachings within our core prayers can transform your perspective and enrich your everyday experiences. Let's embark on this spiritual journey together.

Core Prayers with Rabbi Ari Herzog: Happiness vs. Joy

Welcome back to our core prayer series! Today, we will explore a profound topic: the difference between happiness and joy. Is it merely a matter of words, or is there a deeper meaning to this distinction? Keep that thought in mind as we dive into today’s lesson.

We will conclude our discussion on the morning blessings with a prayer that begins with the words "these are the precepts for which there are no fixed measure." After reciting the blessings of the Torah, we immediately engage with a portion of the actual Torah, along with the priestly blessings we discussed in a previous session.

Today's prayer comes from the first Mishnah in the tractate called Peya, which discusses agricultural laws. While many of these laws may not apply today, they still offer timeless lessons relevant to our lives.

The Mishnah begins with the teaching about leaving part of your field for the poor, known as peya. This mitzvah reminds us to think of those less fortunate and to share our blessings. The number 86, which corresponds to the name of God, suggests that our acts of kindness can draw divine compassion into our lives.

Next, we discuss bikurim, the first fruits offered to God as an expression of gratitude. When we acknowledge our blessings and share a portion back with God, we deepen our connection with the divine.

The prayer also emphasizes the importance of ascension to Jerusalem during the three festivals, where we would offer our thanks to God. Additionally, it highlights gemilut chasadim—acts of kindness—and the study of Torah, both of which have no limitations.

Acts of kindness can be limitless. Whether visiting the sick or helping those in need, there is no cap on how much kindness we can show. The same applies to our study of Torah; it can—and should—be pursued endlessly.

As we reflect on the pursuit of happiness, it is essential to realize that happiness is often tied to external circumstances. In contrast, joy, or simcha, is an internal state that transcends our situations. While happiness may depend on fleeting moments or achievements, joy is rooted deeply within our souls and can be accessed at any time.

In conclusion, I wish each of you a life filled with joy and blessings. May you engage in acts of kindness, study Torah, and connect with God in meaningful ways. Remember, the journey toward joy is boundless. Thank you for joining us today, and may your day be filled with blessings!