A Primer: Berakhot in the Boker (About Morning Blessings)

Long ago, the early rabbis said ברכות (berakhot – blessings) as they rose, got dressed, and ready for their day. Today, these ברכות are part of a Jewish morning prayer service. We’ve chosen a few of the ברכות to focus on.

How do these ברכות relate to the things you do בבקר (baboker – in the morning)? Ask your children to show you the motions that go with each berakhah, just like the pipe cleaner “guys.”

1. Poke’ach Ivrim – Opening Our Eyes (“Opens the eyes of the blind”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם פּוֹקֵחַ עִוְרִים.

2. Mateer Asurim – Stretching (“Releases those who are bound”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם מַתִּיר אֲסוּרִים.

3. Zokeif Kefufim  – Standing Up Tall (“Raises those who are bent”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם זוֹקֵף כְּפוּפִים.

4. Malbeesh Arumim  – Getting Dressed (“Clothes those who are naked”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם מַלְבִּישׁ עֲרֻמִּים.

5. Hanotein Laya’ef Koach – Feeling Strong and Ready for the Day (“Gives strength to the weary”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם הַנּוֹתֵן לַיָּעֵף כֹּחַ.

Show your muscles!

6. Hameicheen Mitz’adei Gaver – Walking With Confidence (“Strengthens people’s steps”)

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם הַמֵּכִין מִצְעֲדֵי גָבֶר.