Why Repeat Shalom Aleichem Three Times?
This responsum from the “Ask the Rabbi” column of the Ohr Somayach website provides several explanations for the popular custom of
Introduction to the Blessing Over the Children
This short article offers a brief introduction to the structure and customs of the blessing over the children, traditionally recited
Blessing the Children and the Importance of Family
In this article, Ariela Pelaia presents how the blessing over the children on Shabbat is traditionally practiced, as well as ways
Washing for a Meal: The Practical, The Philosophical & The Mystical
In these three long video lectures, Chabad Rabbi Mendel Kaplan breaks down the mitzvah of Netilat Yadayim at mealtime, with an
Chabad: Origins, Customs, and Meanings Behind Shalom Aleichem
In this 9:15 long video from Chabad.org, Rabbi Pinchas Taylor gives a thorough and detailed explanation of the origins, customs and meanings behind singing
Chief Rabbi of the UK on Blessing the Children on Shabbat
In this short video, Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the United Kingdom, Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, explains why children are blessed
Introduction to the Blessing over the Bread
This short article offers a brief introduction to the blessing over the bread, including an explanation of the purpose of
The Mitzvah of Separating Challah
This introductory article by Rabbi Mendy Hecht explains the commandment of ‘Hafrashat Challah’ (‘separating challah’), complete with the English transliteration and
Personalizing the Blessing of the Children on Shabbat
This article shows how the ritual blessing over the children on Shabbat can be used as an opportunity to infuse
Friday Night & Beyond: Insights on HaMotzi
This thorough excerpt from “Friday Night and Beyond” by Lori Palatnik includes spiritual explanations for many of the customs surrounding the HaMotzi ritual