How to Bless
“This is how you shall bless the children of Israel, ” (Numbers 6:23). The Torah does not use the language of command—“Bless the Children of Israel”—because the nature of the priests is inclined toward kindness; they themselves are moved to bless Israel. Therefore, there was no need to command them to do so. The command was about how to bless, which is why the Torah says, this is how you shall bless.
(Rabbi Avraham Mordechai of Gur)
Essence of the Blessing
The Priestly Blessing is recited in the singular form—“May the Lord bless you,” etc.—because the essence of the blessing that the Children of Israel need is unity: that they feel they are one people.
(Olalot Ephraim)
All Are Worthy of Blessing
The blessing should be for the Children of Israel as they are. One must not seek only the outstanding or distinguished among the people, nor only the great and righteous. Every Jew among the Children of Israel is worthy of being blessed.
(the Rebbe of Modzitz)
Pursuers of Peace
One of the traits of Aharon the Priest was to love peace and pursue peace. “So shall you bless” also hints that the priests who bless Israel should also be blessed with Aharon’s qualities—that they also become pursuers of peace and love one another.
(the Seer of Lublin)
Blessing with Action
A blessing is not sufficient with speech alone—it must include the “raising of hands.” One must add a hand to the blessing, that it should be expressed in tangible expression. Such blessings, accompanied by deeds, have taste and value.
(Peninei Torah)
