Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary

Blessings of gratitude

In Year 5 students have been exploring the meaning, purpose and significance of ברכות – blessings.  In thinking about when we say blessings and what purpose they may serve, students also raised interesting questions for the class to consider, including:

• Are blessings for our benefit or for God?
• Does God hear our blessings?
• Do you have to say blessings out loud for them to count?

To learn more about prayers and brachot, through engaging and thoughtful animations, try the website BimBam: www.bimbam.com/judaism-101/prayers-blessings/

Gratitude, or הכרת הטוב– hakarat hatov (recognising the good) is an important concept in Judaism. Students realised that ברכות– blessings can help us be mindful and present in the moment and increase appreciation in our lives. Saying ברכות– blessings allows us to grow our mind and nurture the disposition of gratitude.

Student have composed and created their own ברכת הכרת הטוב– blessing of gratitude