Question of the Week

Are there special ways to prepare oneself for prayer?

There is a custom, mentioned in the prayer book compiled by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi - the founder of Chabad Chasidut - which is based on the teachings of Kabala, that one say, "I hereby undertake to fulfill the mitzva (commandment), 'Love your fellowman as yourself,'" before beginning to pray. For fulfilling the commandment of loving a fellow Jew is the gateway that enables a person to enter and stand before G-d in prayer. By virtue of this love one's prayers are accepted.