Complete Classes on Elokai Neshama (from Machon Chana):
Class One. Wednesday 19 MarCheshvan/ Oct. 23, 2013. This is the First class on Elokai Neshama. Here we introduce the prayer, thanking Hashem for the (Godly) Soul, and not just life (like Asher Yatzar). We noticed variations in the text of the prayer from various Rishonim. We read the Tolaas yaakov who explains the thank you for the renewal each morning and the connection to Techiyas Hameisim. We also discussed the mystical meaning of Bracha HaSemucha KiChaverta (Brachos that are called sequential), as Elokai Neshama seems to be.
Class Two. Wednesday 26 MarCheshvan/ Oct. 30, 2013. The second class on Elokai Neshama is still not the reading of the paragraph, but it sets the stage by explaining the key words in this prayer at length: 1) Tehora, why is the Neshama called pure rather than holy, 2) Elokai, why is God called Elokai (rather than Hashem) here, 3) Nasata, what is the significance of the Neshama being a gift.
Class Three. Wednesday 3 Kislev/ Nov. 6, 2013. We read the Elokai Neshama inside. Explaining (in part): 1) the Yesh Meayin of the Neshama, 2) the time limitation and timelessness of it, 3) the eternity of the Neshama and its resurrection, 4) and the thank you.
