Core Prayers with Rabbi Ari Herzog

In this enlightening podcast episode, we delve into the profound meaning of the Shema prayer's verse, "Ukshartem le'ot al yadecha vehayu letotafot bein einecha," which introduces the sacred practice of wearing Tfillin. With the mysterious term "Totafot" at the forefront, we explore how its lack of clear translation underscores the importance of the oral tradition passed down through generations. The discussion extends to the spiritual significance of Tfillin, linking it to themes of love, surrender to God, and mindfulness in our daily lives. We also examine the unique reasons women typically do not wear Tfillin, highlighting their deeper, intrinsic connection to God. Through captivating stories and insights, listeners are invited to reflect on the rich tapestry of Jewish tradition that Tfillin embodies, emphasizing the bonds between past, present, and future generations.

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.

In this podcast episode, the discussion centers around the Shema prayer's verse "Ukshartem le'ot al yadecha vehayu letotafot bein einecha," which introduces the practice of wearing Tfillin. The term "Totafot" remains enigmatic, highlighting the importance of oral tradition in understanding the Torah. The host connects Tfillin to themes of love and surrender to God, emphasizing mindfulness in daily life. The episode also explores why women typically do not wear Tfillin, citing their intrinsic connection to God. Moreover, the design and placement of Tfillin are examined, revealing their spiritual and cognitive benefits. The episode concludes with a poignant story about a student’s commitment to wearing Tfillin in honor of those who cannot, reinforcing the connection between Tfillin, community, and heritage.