The 13 Middot Harachamim 2 Three Ways to Perform This Prayer

 

The 13 Middot Harachamim (Attributes of Mercy)

H'shem's promise states that one who recites the 13 Attributes of Mercy will not have their prayers return unanswered. The commentaries describe three different approaches to fulfill this promise:

Three Ways to Perform This Prayer

1. Recitation of the Prayer
H'shem, wrapped in a Tallit as though serving as the Shaliach Tzibbur (prayer leader), passed before Moshe and instructed that when the Jewish people recite this prayer, their pleas for forgiveness and mercy will not go unanswered.

2. Embodying the Attributes
By internalizing and adopting these middot in our own lives, we become worthy of H'shem's covenant, ensuring our prayers will be accepted.

3. Becoming the Shaliach Tzibbur in Spirit
Just as a prayer leader represents the entire congregation, we must take the concerns of Am Yisroel to heart, treating their hardships as our own when we beseech H'shem for mercy.

The Transcendent Power of Thirteen in Judaism

The significance of the number 13 in Judaism is profound and multifaceted. Some aspects are readily apparent, while others remain veiled in mystery. Yet all convey one clear message: 13 transcends the natural limitations of our world. This transcendent power infuses the 13 Attributes of Mercy (Middot HaRachamim).

The Hebrew word אחד (one) has a numerical value of 13, representing the virtue we invoke when confronted with seemingly impossible situations or disillusionment with reality. The concept of Oneness (1/א) proclaims H'shem's sovereignty over the heavens and earth (8/ח transcending 7, beyond nature), extending to all four corners of the world (4/ד). When we call out to H'shem with this understanding, we recognize that no limitations exist.

Understanding the First Three Attributes

"H'shem" -
The letters יקוק form the name that represents compassion and the prime cause of all that is present in creation. This name expresses H'shem's willingness to forgive. The double mention of this name represents that "I am H'shem before a person sins and I am He after a person sins" (Rosh Hashanah 17b).

The second "H'shem"
This represents the mercy H’shem shows through Teshuvah after a person sins—the miracle of erasing sins as though they never occurred. Rav Hunter describes this as a second form of creation, bringing something from nothing.

"Kel"
According to the Vilna Gaon, this refers to H’shem's attribute of controlling His anger to show compassion.
Practical Applications

In Our Relationships:
When dealing with repeat offenders, we can mirror H’shem's attributes by:
Showing compassion even when we anticipate future missteps
Offering forgiveness when offenses are repeated
Controlling our tempers and responding with kindness

For Personal Growth:
We can achieve these three attributes by separating the person from their actions. Often, misbehavior stems from personal pain. By seeing the individual beyond their deeds, we can not only forgive but help them heal.

Strengthening Faith and Prayer:
Recognizing H'shem as the world's true judge helps us look beyond others' misdeeds and forgive readily. When we understand that H'shem knows each person's struggles, we can judge favorably. This practice earns us favorable judgment from Heaven.


Begin incorporating requests for all of Klal Yisrael in your prayers. This will help make your intentions genuine when the time for Selichot arrives.

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