In conclusion (I’ve always wanted to do that), Tefillah is one of the most important aspects of this time of year. By the use of this powerful tool, one has the ability to erase decrees, bring forth blessing, transform oneself into an entirely new creation, and most importantly, strengthen his bond with the Ribono Shel Olam. And while this notion may seem difficult to understand at first glance, the secret behind Tefillah’s potency can be found within the word itself.

For lack of a better term, tefillah is generally translated as “prayer,” which connotes supplication – asking Hashem for something. A bit more broadly, “prayer” may be thought of as the glorification of Hashem. Yes, Tefillah is all of this, but it is also so much more.

The sole purpose of davening is to create and maintain our exclusive, eternal bond with Hashem. To this point, one of the roots of the word tefillah is “to bond” (see Rashi, Bereishis 30:8). {Side note: Every morning, one wraps himself in “Tefillin,” another word that shares the same origins.} When we daven, we are fulfilling the mitzvah of “Uvo Sidbak,” connecting to Hashem – attaining a d’veykus with Hakadosh Baruch Hu. {Another side note: Tefillah takes the place of korbanos, the root of which is the word “karov – closeness.”}

When we daven, we are strengthening this d’veykus with Hashem, and thereby creating an Eis Ratzon – an opportune moment in time that has the power to transform Din into Chessed, judgement into abundant kindness. How fortunate we are!

It won’t surprise you then, that I thought the perfect song to accompany this message for today’s OOTW would be Va’ani Sefilasi by, you guessed it, D’veykus. This gem was composed by the renowned Jewish Music personality, Ali Scharf and was sung by the legendary group in 1976 on their Volume 2 record. Originally recorded in 1975 on Kol Salonika’s 3rd volume, today’s version features a few of the more recognizable voices of that era; the high tenor of R’ Label Sharfman, the sweet harmonies of Dr. Elli Kranzler along with the rich, resilient and resonant voice of R’ Itzy Weinberger (of The Rabbis’ Sons fame).

It is my hope that this song and its holy words help us further connect to our tefilos and to the powerful strength they contain.