Prayer Before Study by Rav Isaac Luria (The Ari)

The “Prayer Before Study” is a profound and sacred invocation attributed to Rav Isaac Luria, also known as The Ari, one of the greatest Kabbalists of all time. This prayer is recited by students and scholars before engaging in the study of Torah, Kabbalah, or any sacred texts. 📖✨

Purpose and Significance:

This prayer serves as a powerful reminder of the sanctity of learning and the spiritual preparation required to delve into the mysteries of the Torah. It asks for divine assistance to open one’s heart and mind, allowing the wisdom of the Torah to be revealed and understood. The prayer emphasizes humility, reverence, and the desire for enlightenment, asking for forgiveness and the removal of any barriers that might impede the connection between the student and the divine teachings. 🙏💡

Key Aspects of the Prayer:

• Invocation of Divine Favor: The prayer begins by acknowledging God as the Ruler of the universe and Master of all masters, asking for His mercy and forgiveness to draw closer to the holy Torah. 🌍👑

• Request for Spiritual Enlightenment: It seeks the awakening of the heart and mind to truly comprehend the hidden mysteries of the Torah, with the study being as pleasing as the aroma of sweet incense. 💭🕯️

• Emphasis on the Merit of Ancestors: The prayer calls upon the merit of the forefathers and their dedication to Torah study, asking for their merit to aid in the student’s understanding and learning. 🌳📜

• Desire for Divine Wisdom: Quoting King David, the prayer asks for the ability to see wonders in the Torah, recognizing that true wisdom and understanding come directly from God. 👁️✨

This prayer is a beautiful expression of the humility, reverence, and devotion required for the study of sacred texts, and it continues to be a vital part of the spiritual practice for many who seek to connect more deeply with the divine wisdom contained within the Torah. Reciting this prayer creates a spiritual atmosphere that prepares the mind and soul for the profound journey of study. 🌟🙏📚