Rosh Hashanah Prayers for Livelihood: A Rabbi's Guidance

The article explores the permissibility and significance of praying for livelihood during Rosh Hashanah, a period of divine judgment. It cites various rabbinic sources, including the Baal Shem Tov and the Zohar, to explain that while in earlier generations, praying for sustenance was likened to a dog's plea, in contemporary times, it is not only permitted but encouraged. The core idea is that acknowledging one's absolute dependence on God for livelihood reinforces the act of crowning God as King. This recognition, in turn, fosters humility and devotion in prayer.

Several practices are suggested to enhance these prayers. These include reciting the portion of the Torah about the manna, praying for one's livelihood to bring peace of mind for serving God, and focusing prayers on God's glory, which is believed to reciprocally elevate one's own status. The article also mentions reciting Psalm 24 as a specific remedy for financial needs and emphasizes the importance of reciting the Grace After Meals with intention and joy.

Further advice includes purchasing a new knife before Rosh Hashanah, a custom associated with Rabbi Mordechai of Zidichov, as a segulah (spiritual remedy) for year-round sustenance. A profound concept presented is praying for sustenance to come from a holy source, distinguishing it from a less desirable origin. The article concludes by stressing that prioritizing God's kingdom over personal needs can lead to divine provision, as God desires to bestow abundance upon those who acknowledge His sovereignty.