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2. Kavanah – Paying attention to the words upon reciting a before blessing on food:[1]
One must be very careful in the concentration he has upon reciting a blessing, so that he understand the words that he is saying, that he is a blessing G-d, and that he understands what he is blessing G-d for. His heart should not be distracted with other matters while reciting the blessing. See Chapter 2 Halacha 1!
Sparks of Kabbalah:[2]
The main comprehension one receives in Ruach Hakodesh is dependent on ones concentration that he has upon reciting blessings over pleasures, as through these blessings one nullifies the Kelipos found in the foods that he eats. This in turn refines the persons soul and body and makes him a receptacle to receive the Kedusha. Thus, one must be very careful in his recital of Birchas Hanehnin.
- Example: Rivka sits down to eat a piece of bread. Before taking her first bite, she pauses, closes her eyes for a moment, and focuses on the words of the blessing: “Baruch Atah Hashem, Elokeinu Melech ha’olam, haMotzi lechem min ha’aretz.” She thinks about how she is thanking G-d for providing bread and sustenance. During the blessing, she avoids thinking about anything else—her errands, her phone, or even the taste of the bread—so that her heart and mind are fully present. Through this mindful blessing, Rivka not only fulfills a mitzvah but also, according to Kabbalah, brings a spiritual refinement upon herself and her meal.
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[1] See Seder 9:3; Admur 5:1; 185:1-2; Ketzos Hashulchan 55:1; Encyclopedia Talmudit Vol. 4 Erech Berachos pp. 299
[2] Shara Ruach Hakodesh p. 4; Ketzos Hashulchan 55 footnote 1