52: Shelo Asani Eved: What Is Trying to Own Me?

54 Episode: Pokeach Ivrim — More Than Opening Our Eyes

In this episode of Tefilah Today, we explore the morning blessing Pokeach Ivrim — “Who opens the eyes of the blind.” Why does the Siddur use the word pokeach, and what does it teach us about seeing beyond physical sight? Through Torah sources and the structure of Birchos HaShachar, we discover how this brachah asks Hashem to help us see our day, our role, and our lives with greater clarity.

53 Shelo Asani Isha and SheAsani Kirtzono - Not Comparison But Calling

Why does a woman say “She’asani kirtzono” — and not “Shelo asani ish”? Real tefilah asks: Who did Hashem create me to be — and how do I receive my avodah with dignity and purpose?

52: Shelo Asani Eved: What Is Trying to Own Me?

This week on Tefilah Today: Shelo Asani Eved — “Who did not make me a slave.” Why does the bracha say eved, and not “who made me an eved Hashem”? We explore how Hashem formed us into a goy kadosh, redeemed us from Mitzrayim, and gave us the freedom to serve Him. What is trying to own my mind, my choices, or my peace — and what is one sincere step I can take as an eved Hashem?

51 Shelo Asani Goy - Part 2 What Was I Made For?

Why does the brachah say asani — “You made me” — and not barani — “You created me”? In this episode, we follow the Torah’s language from Adam to Avraham to Sinai, uncovering how the Siddur forces us to ask: if I was not made into the general story of the nations, what was I made for? A deeper look at identity, purpose, and the mission of a Torah Jew.

50 Shelo Asani Goy - Why Not Say She'asani Yisroel?

Why not say she’asani Yisrael? This episode opens up the deeper meaning of Shelo Asani Goy and shows how Chazal use contrast to awaken gratitude, responsibility, and awareness of the covenantal life a Jew has with Hashem.