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Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Rachmastrivka Rebbe Saying Birchas Ilanos - 5771



Rosh Chodesh Nissan officially ushers in the Spring season when we may
recite Birchat Ha'Ilanot, the blessing upon seeing fruit trees in
bloom.

This special blessing is recited only once a year. In it we praise
G-d's ongoing renewal of creation.

According to Kabbalah, this blessing has special significance. When
Jews make this blessing they are able to redeem souls who have been
re-incarnated in the vegetal realm, making it possible for them to
continue or complete their tikun (soul rectification). It should
therefore, be said with intense concentration and kavanah (intention).

In addition, it is desirable to follow the blessing with a donation of
three coins to tzedakah (charity), corresponding to the three soul
levels of nefesh-ruach-neshama. Also, the Ben Ish Hai, the famous 20th
century halachic authority and kabbalist from Bagdad, recommends
giving 4 coins for the elevation of the soul of one's departed
parents, based on the 4 letters of the Name.

"See (said Yitzchok of Yaacov), the fragrance of my son is like the
fragrance of a field that G-d has blessed." (Gen. 27:27) It is
interpreted that this verse applies to anyone who recites Birchat
Ha'Ilanot with the proper intention.

(Produced by Yrachmiel Tilles, for Ascent of Zefat,
Rosh Chodesh Nissan 5760
based on Shulchan HaShalem,'Ohalei Tsaddikim, and Kaf HaHayim)

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