Tefillah Tips - Hameir Laaretz 7
“Tisbarach Hashem Elokaynu Al Shevach Maaseh Yadechah, Veal Meoray Ohr Sheasita…. G-d, You shall be blessed even higher than the praises of the heavenly angels and more than the praises of the luminaries……..”
The previous verses address the wonders of the creation of the sun, the moon, the stars and the spiritual heavens above. Then the Tefillah recognizes the perfect praises that are extolled by the angels in heaven. In this phrase we remark that our Tefillot/ -i.e. prayers and praises supersede even those of the angels. The reason why our prayers are so special is because unlike angels, human beings are endowed with freedom of choice.
If this point would be better understood by the masses, Tefillah would be approached with more awareness, respect and zeal. Think about it - one could never be as holy as an angel. Angels are created by G-d as agents to fulfill His will and to praise him amidst all of the celestial beings in perfect harmony and unity. In fact the Kedushah we recite each day is specifically modeled after the angelic praises in heaven that our prophets reported to us –“Kishem Shemakdishim Bishmay Marom– We praise G-d the way the angels do in heaven”.But OUR TEFILLAH is even more significant then the prayers of the angels!!!!
Ashreinu Mah Tov Chelkaynu - How fortunate we are to have this great opportunity each day to approach and praise our Creator. The greatest and most precious gifts in our lives are all at our fingertips. Which is more precious gold or air? Air – and it is free. Which are more precious possessions or dignity? Dignity-and it’s free. Which is more precious a great business deal or expressing kindness and love to another – the latter – and it’s free. Tefillah is for free! It has been translated, transliterated and elucidated in so many languages. The rest is up to you and me. We can transcend the angels or we can miss the opportunity. May we all merit to daven / pray with sincerity and purity so that all the prayers of Israel will all be answered Letovah.
Shabbat Shalom Rabbi Ephraim Epstein