Connected: Prayer with Purpose - Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi concludes the Birkat Kohanim with “Yisa Hashem Panav Elecha Ve’Yasem Lecha Shalom.” What does it mean for Hashem to “raise His face” toward us and why is peace the final and ultimate blessing? This class explains that beyond blessing, success, and even favor in the eyes of others, everything depends on one critical factor: shalom. Without peace, no blessing can last or be enjoyed.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the meaning of “Ya’er Hashem Panav Elecha” that Hashem should shine the light of His face upon you. What does it mean for Hashem’s “face” to shine toward a person? This class reveals that it’s not just about blessing, but about feeling seen. When someone turns their face toward you, gives you their full attention, and lights up in your presence, you feel valued and acknowledged. Similarly, when Hashem “shines His face,” it means experiencing His presence, His care, and His personal attention in your life.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi begins exploring Birkat Kohanim, the priestly blessings, starting with the words “Ye’Varechecha Hashem Ve’Yishmerecha.” Why do we ask not only for blessing, but also for protection? This class reveals a deeper truth: receiving blessing is only half the equation. A person can be given abundance, success, or opportunity, but without the capacity to hold, appreciate, and protect it, that blessing can be lost.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores a powerful nuance in the blessing: we don’t just say Hashem gave the Torah, we say Noten HaTorah, that He is continuously giving it. What’s the difference between a one-time event at Sinai and an ongoing, present-day experience? Rabbi Farhi explains that just as Hashem constantly renews creation, He also continuously gives the Torah in every moment. The challenge is not access to Torah, but keeping it fresh.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessing “Asher Bachar Banu Mikol Ha’amim Ve’Natan Lanu Et Torah'to.” What does it really mean that Hashem chose the Jewish people and gave them the Torah? Through the famous teaching that Hashem offered the Torah to every nation before Israel accepted it, Rabbi Farhi explains that the Torah is not only wisdom, it is a way of life filled with meaning, direction, and purpose. Hashem saw in the Jewish people a unique dedication and stubborn commitment to serve Him, beginning with Avraham Avinu. That commitment is what made us the nation capable of receiving the Torah.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains the deeper meaning of the blessing “Ha’Melamed Torah Le’Amo Yisrael.” If we usually learn Torah from rabbis, books, or our own study, what does it mean that Hashem teaches Torah to His people? This class reveals that every moment of true understanding in Torah is a gift from Hashem. When a difficult Rashi suddenly becomes clear, when insight appears unexpectedly while teaching or learning, or when clarity arrives after struggling with a concept, it is Hashem opening the gates of understanding.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores what it truly means to learn Torah lishmah—for its own sake. Is a mitzvah about how it makes us feel, or about fulfilling Hashem’s will? This class clarifies the difference between serving Hashem because we agree with him and serving Hashem simply because He commanded it.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores what it truly means for us, our children, and our grandchildren to “know Hashem’s name.” Going far beyond a label, Shem Hashem represents God’s reputation in the world—and we are His ambassadors. This class reveals how our behavior, integrity, and way of life either elevate or diminish that name, and how truly knowing Hashem means living in alignment with His Torah, values, and presence in every part of life.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi deepens the discussion of Ve’Harev Na, exploring how enjoyment shapes attention, energy, and ultimately identity. He explains that what we find sweet is what we naturally pursue—and what we pursue consistently is what forms who we are. Through practical examples, this class reveals why we ask Hashem to make Torah enjoyable, how excitement drives focus and growth, and how even small daily choices compound into a lifetime.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessing Ve’Harev Na, where we ask Hashem to make the words of Torah sweet and enjoyable in our mouths and in the mouths of our children and future generations. The Rabbi explains why spiritual growth depends not only on discipline, but on joy and sweetness, and how Torah that is experienced as meaningful and pleasurable becomes the foundation for a lasting connection to Hashem.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah Ve’Tzivanu Al Divrei Torah. He explains how Torah is not merely a subject of study, but a way of life that elevates, separates, and sanctifies you. From the spiritual consequences of treating Torah as “just another discipline,” to the inherent power of Torah learning to ignite the soul even without full understanding, this class reframes why beginning the day with Torah fundamentally transforms who we are and how we live.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah Tatzileinu Me’Dina Shel Gehinnom—asking Hashem to save us from the judgment of Gehinnom. Drawing on the teachings of Rabbi Dessler, he reframes Gehinnom not as eternal punishment, but as a profound act of Divine kindness: a temporary, painful process that cleanses the soul and restores closeness to Hashem. Through vivid metaphors and deep perspective, this class challenges common misconceptions and reveals how even Divine judgment is ultimately an expression of love.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah Tatzileinu Me’Din Ka’she—asking Hashem to protect us from harsh judgments and destructive legal conflicts. From being sued to choosing whether to pursue legal action ourselves, Rabbi Farhi unpacks how quickly “simple” disputes can spiral into emotional, financial, and spiritual turmoil. The focus of this prayer is not only protection, but wisdom: knowing when to act, when to walk away, and how to avoid entering battles that were never meant to be fought.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah Tatzileinu Me’Mita Meshuna—asking Hashem to save us from sudden, unnatural, or inexplicable harm. From rare illnesses to shocking accidents, this prayer confronts the moments that feel random and destabilizing. Rabbi Farhi explains why the tefillah is intentionally specific: to train us to recognize that even the most unusual events are not outside Hashem’s involvement, and to deepen our awareness that Hashems guidance extends into every detail of life.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah Tatzileinu Me’Malshinut—asking Hashem to protect us from informers, slander, false testimony, and baseless hatred. Whether it’s business disputes, legal challenges, rumors, or anonymous hostility, these threats often come through words rather than actions. This prayer trains us to recognize our vulnerability, acknowledge Hashem’s constant protection, and respond with emunah when challenges do arise—seeing them not as random attacks, but as purposeful tests designed for growth and elevation.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the tefillah of “Me’Ayin Ha’ra, Me’Lashon Ha’ra”, uncovering how envy and negative speech stem from the spiritual misunderstanding and belief that someone else’s blessing diminishes our own. This class reframes jealousy, comparison, and gossip into opportunities for emunah—reminding us that no one can ever take what was meant for us, and that when we put out good, good comes back.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores "Pegah Ra" asking Hashem to save us from harm — not just the accidents we experience, but the countless disasters we never even knew were heading our way. The quiet miracles of daily life, the near-misses we never notice, the traps we step into unknowingly, and the ways Hashem pulls our feet out before we even sense the danger. This powerful tefillah teaches us to recognize Hashem’s constant protection, to feel gratitude for what didn’t happen, and to understand that every safe day is a gift.

In this class Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi discusses "Me’Shachen Ra", the tefillah asking Hashem to save us from a bad neighbor. A neighbor isn’t just someone who lives next door — they become part of your daily environment, your values, your lifestyle, and even your inner world. From Brooklyn driveway wars to spiritual influence, from social pressure to lifestyle creep — this episode uncovers how profoundly neighbors shape us, and why we pray daily for protection.

In this episode Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explore the tefillah “Tatzileinu Me’chaver Ra” — asking Hashem to save us from the wrong friendships, the relationships that quietly pull us down, limit our potential, or cloud our judgment. From Yaakov navigating life alone, to modern examples of friendships that cap our spiritual, emotional, or business growth — this class brings a powerful reminder: You don’t always see the danger when you’re close to it. So we ask Hashem for clarity, protection, and the courage to let go when needed.

In this episode Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi discusses that we often assume that beating the Yetzer Ha’ra is our job — our strength, our discipline, our willpower. But Chazal teaches the Yetzer Ha’ra grows stronger every day, and without Hashem’s help, we simply cannot defeat it. The moment we acknowledge, “Hashem, I can’t win this without You,” is the moment real strength begins.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores "adam ra and isha ra’ah " — people whose influence, intentions, or presence could harm us or pull us into situations not meant for us. Not every missed call, failed deal, or unanswered text is a setback — sometimes it’s protection. Hashem can block the wrong business partner, distance us from toxic personalities, and shield us from relationships that would damage our growth. And when we rely on Hashem, not people, He guides us toward what’s truly beneficial. A powerful reminder that divine protection often shows up as “nothing happened today.”

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains the tefillah asking Hashem to save us from azut panim—brazen, harsh, ego-charged interactions, whether coming toward us or rising within us. Some days, all it takes is one tense conversation to derail our inner world. We’re asking Hashem to protect us from being pulled into anger, arrogance, and emotional turbulence… and instead to help us tap into the positive kind of boldness: the inner strength to stand for truth, for Hashem’s will, and for our higher selves. A grounded reflection on navigating confrontation without losing your center.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains Tatzileinu Hayom U’Bechol Yom Vayom - “Hashem, save us today and every day.” We often assume that because yesterday was smooth, today will be too — health will hold, money will be there, nothing major will shift. Why do we ask for protection today if nothing seems wrong… and then repeat every day as if the routine hasn’t already carried us safely? The tefillah realigns us that every day’s stability is a fresh gift from Hashem, not a continuation of our own merit. By recognizing that yesterday’s safety came from Hashem, we step into today with renewed gratitude, awareness, and reliance.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi reflects on how we spend so much energy worrying about how others see us — but what if we started asking how Hashem sees us? To make sure we act, speak, and respond in a way that reflects how Hashem would want us to. When we stop chasing approval from people and start focusing on our standing before God, we gain true grounding. Through a powerful teaching from Chazal, we’re reminded: if we can feel Hashem’s presence in the room as vividly as we feel another person’s, we’ll choose better, speak kinder, and live higher.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the deeper meaning behind our request for ahava, chen, chesed, and rachamim — love, favor, kindness, and mercy — in the Vi’hi Ratzon prayer. These aren’t just abstract blessings; they are divine tools through which Hashem molds how others feel about us.When we ask Hashem for these qualities, we’re not just hoping to be liked — we’re asking Him to influence the hearts of those around us, to plant compassion, warmth, and goodwill in their eyes toward us. Every act of kindness we receive, every opportunity that opens, every person who shows us favor — it’s not random. It’s Hashem orchestrating our relationships, guiding interactions, and softening hearts.This awareness brings emotional security and spiritual clarity. We stop obsessing over how to win people over and start focusing on our connection with Hashem — the true source of all favor. When we trust that He is the One turning hearts in our direction, we gain peace, confidence, and a deeper sense of purpose in our relationships.

In this continuation of V’hi Ratzon, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi reveals the deeper meaning behind our daily plea: “Hashem, don’t bring me to sin, temptation, or disgrace — and distance me from the Yetzer Hara.” This isn’t just about avoiding mistakes on our own. It’s about asking Hashem to protect us from ourselves — from our impulses, our distractions, and the inner voice that pulls us away from truth. When we turn to Him for help, He guides our steps, strengthens our discipline, and aligns our will with His.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi begins exploring the prayer Vi’hi Ratzon, asking Hashem to “make us accustomed to Your Torah and attached to Your mitzvot.” Real change isn’t about giant leaps, it’s about daily steps. Rabbi Farhi shares how this prayer asks Hashem to help us make Torah and mitzvot feel natural, effortless, and woven into our everyday rhythm. When learning and mitzvot become our second nature—part of our daily muscle memory—our spiritual life transforms from effort to instinct.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessing Hamaavir Chevlei Sheina — “Hashem, You remove the bonds of sleep from my eyes.” Ever notice how you can see someone’s excitement in their eyes? This blessing is a request for Hashem to reignite our inner light, restore our energy, and help us see life with fresh eyes again. When your eyes shine, your soul is alive.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessings Shelo Asani Isha and She’asani Kirtzono —Why do men thank Hashem for not being women—and women thank Hashem for being made “ as He willed”? Far from a statement of superiority or inequality, these berachot teach the power of acceptance: that Hashem places each person in their perfect role, with their own challenges, tools, and opportunities for growth. Hashem knew that men, left to their own devices, could easily become consumed by work, distraction, and ego—so He gave men structure: fixed times, clear routines, and daily mitzvot to pull us back to Him. Women, by contrast, were created with a natural spiritual sensitivity that keeps them connected without as much external framework. True peace comes when we stop comparing, stop wishing for someone else’s life, and embrace the divine wisdom in our own.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi discusses another idea on the beracha of Shelo Asani Aved. On the surface, we serve Hashem and follow rules. But this service isn’t slavery—it’s alignment. Just like a violin string only produces music when held in tension, our souls produce greatness when bound by divine structure. Hashem’s “restrictions” aren’t to limit us—they remove distractions, refine our focus, and unleash our true potential. Real freedom is found not in doing whatever we want, but in becoming who we’re meant to be.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi unpacks Shelo Asani Aved – “Thank You, Hashem, for not making me a slave.” While we may no longer know physical slavery, many still live bound by inner chains – addictions, anxieties, habits, or self-limiting beliefs. This beracha calls us to see Hashem as the One who can set us free from whatever owns us inside. True freedom isn’t about doing whatever we want – it’s about no longer being a slave to what we don’t want to be.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the powerful blessing Shelo Asani Goy. Far from arrogance, this beracha is a heartfelt expression of gratitude to Hashem for giving us a Jewish soul—a life anchored in truth, purpose, and divine connection. It’s a praise to God for making our portion different from that of a non-Jew, reminding us that even the most successful or admired non-Jewish life cannot compare to the eternal spiritual inheritance of a Jew. This blessing calls us not only to appreciate our unique role, but also to resist the temptation to chase after lifestyles or values that are not ours. Instead, we should embrace our divine mission with pride, integrity, and joy.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi reflects on Oter Yisrael B’Tifarah—“Hashem crowns Israel with glory”. This is a call to embrace our Jewish identity with confidence and dignity. True honor comes not from blending in, but from standing tall as part of Hashem’s chosen nation. When we carry ourselves with pride and integrity, we reflect the Divine beauty within us—and inspire respect in the world around us.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains Ozer Yisrael B’gevurah—“Hashem girds Israel with strength”. True strength, doesn’t come from control, but from trust—the calm confidence that Hashem has prepared our path, given us exactly what we need, and placed us precisely where we’re meant to be. From that awareness comes unshakable inner power.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessing She’asah Li Kol Tzarki. This prayer teaches profound trust in Hashem: that whatever we have is exactly what we need for today, and whatever we lack is not yet required for our growth. From physical comforts to life’s deeper challenges, Hashem equips each person with the perfect “toolkit” for their mission.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains Hamechin Mitzadei Gaver—Hashem prepares the footsteps of man. We plan, we act, and we strive, but the results are never fully ours. This blessing teaches us to trust that every step, even the detours and delays, are divinely directed toward what’s ultimately best. By aligning effort with emunah, we find peace in knowing that Hashem guides not just our paths—but our destinations.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessing Roka Haaretz Al Hamayim. Beyond the physical miracle of stable ground beneath our feet, this prayer reminds us of the gift of emotional and spiritual stability. Just as vertigo throws us off balance, life’s chaos can leave us spinning. This blessing becomes a daily request for Hashem’s help to steady our footing, so we can make clear decisions and live with calm direction.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi unpacks the blessing Hanoten Layaef Koach. Life’s challenges often leave us drained, yet each new day is proof that Hashem renews our energy, our resilience, and our ability to endure. Sometimes that strength helps us overcome, and sometimes it helps us rise again after stumbling. This prayer is not just about rest—it’s about knowing that Hashem never leaves you without the energy to face your challenges.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi delves into a deeper aspect of Malbish Arumim. Just as clothing covers our body’s imperfections, our physical body “covers” our neshama, presenting challenges. These struggles, desires, and limitations are actually opportunities. By reframing life’s difficulties, we can recognize them as the very chance that allows our souls to grow, overcome obstacles, and strengthen our connection with Hashem.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi unpacks Malbish Arumim—the blessing that thanks Hashem for clothing the naked. Beyond simply covering ourselves, this beracha reminds us that even the physical joy of clothing, whether it’s simple essentials or even something stylish we enjoy, can become a moment of connection with Hashem.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores another idea on the beracha Zokef Kefufim— Hashem straightens those who are bent. Beyond the physical gift of posture and strength, this blessing is also about spiritual awareness. Often, we can’t even see where we’re “bent”—our blind spots, flaws, and habits that keep us from growth. This prayer asks Hashem to reveal what’s hidden, help us straighten our ways, and keep us moving on a path of constant correction and uplift.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi unpacks the blessing Zokef Kefufim—“Hashem straightens those who are bent.” Beyond thanking God for physical posture and mobility, it’s a reminder that true confidence and inner strength come from Him. Standing tall means living with resilience, rooted in the awareness that our power is not our own, but from Hashem.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores another dimension of Matir Asurim. Beyond gratitude for physical freedom, it is a heartfelt prayer to be released from spiritual stagnation, from the heavy feeling of being stuck despite our best intentions. As the High Holidays approach, this blessing reminds us that Hashem can transform fleeting inspiration into lasting growth, and even awaken us from deep spiritual slumber.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains that the blessing Matir Asurim —reminds us to thank Hashem for freedom in all its forms. From the mobility of our limbs, to the gift of not living behind bars, to release from emotional prisons like fear, anxiety, or addiction—this beracha teaches us deep gratitude. Each morning, we affirm that Hashem is the One who unlocks what ties us down, granting us true movement and freedom.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains how beyond physical and spiritual vision, Pokeach Ivrim also points to clarity of mind. Hashem opens our eyes to see with understanding—removing doubt, guiding decisions, and bringing peace of mind in relationships, choices, and spiritual growth. True joy comes when confusion lifts and clarity sets in.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi in this episode discusses the lifelong challenge of desire, the importance of setting intentions for our eyes and mind, and how choosing holiness brings blessing and clarity to life. The beracha Pokeach Ivrim isn’t only about physical sight—it’s also about spiritual vision.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi reflects on how in Pokeach Ivrim, we thank Hashem for the ability to see—a gift we often take for granted. From the clarity of color to the joy of seeing loved ones’ faces, sight shapes our daily experiences. This beracha calls us to pause, appreciate the wonder of vision, and recognize how precious it truly is when we notice the details of the world around us.

Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explains how Asher Natan Lasechvi Binah Lehavhin... goes beyond a rooster’s crow—it’s about the instincts Hashem implanted in us, physically and spiritually. From basic survival reflexes to moral and spiritual boundaries, we explore how these “inner signals” guide and protect us, help us to perform, and shape our daily choices and long-term growth.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi unpacks how Hashem gives us the gift of discernment—the wisdom to recognize day from night, light from darkness - not just physically, but emotionally, mentally and spiritually. More than just gratitude for clarity; it’s also a daily prayer for strength to make the right choices. Each decision shapes our day, our year, and ultimately our life.

In this episode, Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores what it means to be truly alive: each morning, Hashem returns our soul to us—reminding us that without it, we are only bodies without life. Real life is defined not by our physical existence, but by the moments our soul is in the driver’s seat, connected to Hashem.