Morning Blessings: Rav Chaim Vital: Praying for the Chaburah

The 30th of Nisan is the Yahrtzeit of Rav Chaim Vital (1543-1620): Furthermore, my teacher, of blessed memory, admonished me and all the companions who belonged to his group, that before the morning prayer we should accept for ourselves the positive commandment, “And you shall love your friend as yourself (Vayikra 19:18).” A person should intend to love every Jew like himself, for by this means his prayer will ascend, included with all Israel. It will be able to ascend and to bring about the restoration above.

Especially important is the love of all our companions towards each other. Each and every one must include himself, such that he is one of the limbs of this fraternity.

My teacher, of blessed memory, especially admonished me concerning this matter. If, God forbid, any member is plagued by anguish, then one should join in his pain and pray for him. Thus in every matter one should join together with his companions. (Sha’ar haGilgulim 53a)

The first part, love of all Jews, should be reviewed before one says, “I accept on myself the positive commandment of, ‘And you shall love your friend as yourself’,” before reciting Mah Tovu.

The second part of being connected to a Chaburah should be recited before studying Korbanot, the Daily Offerings. (Siddur haAri)