Pertinent Inspirational Insights on the Parshah
Translated from the outstanding Lev Shomaya Parsha series that contain highlights of the lectures and deroshos given by: Harav Shmaya Low shlita - London, England
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פרשת נשא
יברכך ה' וישמרך. יאר ה' פניו אליך ויחנך. ישא ה' פניו אליך וישם לך שלום. ושמו את שמי על בני ישראל ואני אברכם. (במדבר ו כד-כז)
Translation: May Hashem bless you and guard you. May Hashem shine His face upon you and be gracious to you. May Hashem lift His face to you and grant you peace. They shall place My Name upon the Children of Israel, and I will bless them.
This week's Parsha, Naso, contains the famous Birkat Kohanim, the Priestly Blessing. The Kohanim are commanded to bless the Jewish people with these words, and Hashem promises that He Himself will bless them.
The Power of Blessing
The Sages teach that the blessing of a simple person should not be taken lightly. If this is so, how much more so the blessing of the Kohanim, who are commanded by Hashem to bless the nation. The Kohanim act as conduits for Hashem's blessing, and their words have the power to bring down abundance and protection from Above.
It is customary in many communities for parents to bless their children with the words of Birkat Kohanim every Friday night. This practice is a beautiful way to connect to the power of blessing and to express our hopes for our children's wellbeing and spiritual growth.
Receiving Blessings
To receive a blessing, one must be a vessel for it. The Sages explain that a person who is humble and recognizes that all good comes from Hashem is more likely to receive blessing. Arrogance and self-reliance block the flow of blessing, while humility and gratitude open the channels for Hashem's kindness.
May we merit to receive the blessings of the Kohanim, and may Hashem shower us with goodness, protection, and peace.
