THE GENESIS OF A PRAYER: Origins and Meaning of the Amidah – with Rabbi Michael Skobac is part #1 of A Ladder to Heaven: A 6-part series in Understanding Judaism’s Central Prayer, the Amidah.
Why Prayer Matters
Prayer is one of the most personal ways we build a relationship with G-d. We can speak to the Almighty at any moment, in any language, in our own words. Judaism treats prayer as more than a request. It is avodah shebalev, “service of the heart.” It is how we come to know G-d, notice our dependence on Him, and grow through that encounter.
Many people want a deeper connection to prayer but find the words of the siddur distant or unfamiliar. When we understand what we are saying, and why, prayer can become a meaningful conversation with our Creator.
The Amidah: The Heart of Jewish Prayer:
At the center of Jewish worship stands the Amidah, the “Standing Prayer.” It is also called the Shemoneh Esrei (“The Eighteen”) for its original eighteen blessings, and the Silent Prayer because it is whispered in quiet devotion. It is recited every morning, afternoon and evening. The Talmud calls it simply Tefillah, “The Prayer.”
The Sages arranged the Amidah with great care. It opens with praise, moves to personal and national requests, and closes with gratitude and a plea for peace. In doing so, it teaches us how to approach G-d, and also what to ask for and why.
About the Series
In this six-part lecture series, Rabbi Michael Skobac explores the origins, structure and meaning of the Amidah. He looks at the history behind its blessings and the insights they offer for our spiritual lives. Whether you pray daily or are just beginning to explore Jewish prayer, this series will help you find new depth and intention in the words of the Shemoneh Esrei.
About session #1
1) THE GENESIS OF A PRAYER: The Origins and Meaning of the Amidah
Discover the origins and meaning of the Amidah, the central prayer of Jewish worship, also known as the Shemoneh Esrei. How did spontaneous, personal prayer develop into a structured daily service? Why do Jews recite the Standing Prayer morning, afternoon, and evening?
In this introductory lecture Rabbi Skobac explores the Amidah’s history, purpose, and enduring power to deepen our relationship with G-d. Can words composed centuries ago give voice to our most personal struggles and deepest hopes? Uncover the wisdom behind the Jewish daily prayers—and discover how familiar words can become a fresh encounter with the Divine.
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About Rabbi Michael Skobac
Since 1991, Rabbi Michael Skobac has been the Director of Education and Counselling for Jews for Judaism, an organization dedicated to Jewish education and Counter-Missionary Outreach, with a worldwide audience through its popular YouTube channel.
Rabbi Michael Skobac has 45 years of experience in Jewish education and outreach. He is a leading expert in Jewish-Christian dialogue and has helped thousands of people navigate complex theological questions about the Messiah, Bible, and faith.
About JEWS FOR JUDAISM:
Jews for Judaism is a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to strengthening Jewish identity through Jewish education and outreach. We provide intellectually serious resources on Torah, Jewish philosophy, spirituality, ethics, Israel advocacy, and contemporary religious challenges, equipping Jews to deepen their understanding of their heritage and respond thoughtfully to religious claims that challenge authentic Judaism, including those advanced by Christian missionary groups.
Since 1989, Jews for Judaism has been a trailblazer in global Jewish outreach. Jews for Judaism wins back to Judaism those Jews who have been influenced by these Seven Threats to Jewish Survival:
• Christian Missionaries convert 1,000’s of Jews worldwide annually
• Destructive Cults induce Jews to abandon family, friends & careers
• Eastern Religions are now the spiritual choices for many Jews
• Jewish apathy and ignorance cause Jews to abandon assimilate
• Intermarriage is exploding worldwide at 75% rate in many locales
• Anti-Israel lies brainwash millions & destroy Jewish support for Israel
• Antisemitism and Jew-Hatred alienates Jews from Judaism
JEWS FOR JUDAISM strengthens and preserves Jewish lives through its worldwide Internet outreach, social media, free educational programs and counselling services that connect Jewish people to the spiritual depth, beauty and wisdom of Judaism.
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