Torah, Tefilla, and Hisbodedus

R' Gislason - Torah 25 Tinyana

The Transformative Power of Turning Torah into Tefillah

In this session, the speaker initiates a discussion on the significant concept of transforming Torah study into heartfelt prayer (Tefillah). The session begins with a focus on the book club's usual subject, 'The Story of the Chacham and the Tam,' but shifts to an in-depth exploration of the teachings found in Likutey Moharan and Likutey Halakhot by Reb Nachman. Key themes discussed include the practice of regular Tehillim recitation, the spiritual dialogue known as Hisboididus, and the practical aspect of making one’s learning personal through prayer. The speaker delves into Kabbalistic aspects, showing how Torah and Tefillah are connected through the mystical structures of the ten Sefirot and the concept of integrating profound spiritual truths into daily practice. The importance of these practices is emphasized through their application to the High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot, ultimately advocating for daily engagement with deep Torah learning and personal prayer. The session concludes with a Q&A addressing practical concerns about Jewish prayer practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:24 Overview of Today's Topic

02:39 The Power of Tehillim and Hisboididus

05:55 Turning Torah into Tefillah

07:09 Practical Benefits

12:35 Kabbalistic Insights into Torah and Tefillah

23:31 The Significance of the Number 13

31:18 Connecting Torah and Tefillah to Jewish Holidays

41:50 Understanding the Halakha of a Sukkah

42:52 The Nature of Tefillah

44:17 Three Types of Tefillah

48:46 Connecting Tefillah and Torah

51:43 The Role of Set Prayers in Judaism

58:12 The Importance of Personal Prayer

01:11:36 Historical Context of Personal Prayer