What is a Blessing?

Being a Cohen or priest in the family tradition of the sons of Yisrael, or what is commonly referred to as Judaism, blessings are a favorite topic of mine.  Back when I lived in Jerusalem, orthodox Jews, when they found out I was a Cohen, would ask my to bless them.  Also, every day, during the morning prayers, the Cohanim would bless the congregation.  And at the Kotel (the western wall), during the week of Pesach (Passover) and Succot, hundreds … Continue reading

Blessing the Trees

Last week started the Jewish month of Nissan.  And it continues through April 22nd this year.  I mention this because Nissan is a very special month.  The Torah refers to it as the month of spring.  It is for this reason we have leap year in the Jewish calendar:  the month of Nissan must always be in the spring. Because Nissan is the month of spring, it is given a special honor:  it is the month that we bless the … Continue reading