Why do blessings and prayers address God in second person ('You') while some psalms use both second and third person?
Synopsis
The Aruch HaShulchan explains that direct address ('Atah') is used in blessings because we relate to God through His actions, which are accessible to us. The third person ('Hu') is used when referring to His essence, which is hidden even from the angels.
More in Intent and Pronunciation in Blessings
Is one required to have in mind the meaning of the words when reciting blessings?
4 opinions
When pronouncing the Tetragrammaton (י-ה-ו-ה) during blessings, what intent is required?
3 opinions
Where the written form of God's Name is Adonai (א-ד-ו-נ-י), what intent is required?
3 opinions
How should the alef of Adonai be vocalized when the Tetragrammaton is written with Yud-Hei vowel points?
3 opinions
When pronouncing the Name Elokim (א-ל-ה-י-ם) during blessings, what intent is required?
4 opinions
Is it prohibited to pronounce the Tetragrammaton (י-ה-ו-ה) as it is written?
2 opinions
What is the theological meaning of 'Baruch Atah' (Blessed are You) in blessings?
1 opinions
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If one prays the make-up prayer first and the required prayer second, has one fulfilled the obligation?
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When praying Shacharit twice for a make-up, must one eat before the second prayer?
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May one eat before praying the second Shacharit in a tashlumin situation?
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Discussion
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