| “And Avraham built an altar and called out to the Name of HaShem” (Bereishis 12:4).
Humankind is created in the image of HaShem. Just as HaShem possesses intelligence and the faculty of speech, so too human beings are endowed with intelligence and the power of speech. This connection between thought and expression allows us to articulate our innermost ideas and emotions. On a deeper level, HaShem granted us the gift of speech so that we could pray and communicate with Him. Indeed, we find that Avraham Avinu frequently “called out to HaShem.”
We are privileged to know HaShem through the legacy of Avraham Avinu, the first individual to recognize the One True God. The combination of intelligence and speech in humans is not merely for survival or communication. In the spiritual realm, intelligence enables us to perceive and recognize HaShem, while speech provides the means to cry out to Him in times of need, seeking His guidance, love, or assistance.
Prayer is the synthesis of intelligence and speech. Through intelligence, we attain awareness of HaShem; through speech, we have the opportunity to call out to Him and seek deliverance from our troubles.
Reflect on the verse, “And Avraham built an altar and called out to the Name of HaShem.” Picture Avraham Avinu contemplating HaShem, Creator of heaven and earth. As he journeys through Eretz Yisrael, he pauses at significant locations to offer heartfelt prayers. Contemplate the infinite power and holiness of HaShem. Take this as an opportunity to pray for all your needs and to thank Him for the unbounded goodness He continually bestows upon you. (Based on Chochma U’Mussar of the Saba M’Kelm)
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