Hafrashat Challah Playlist
A nice idea is to start out with a brachos party – divide yourselves into two while one group takes a few bites and the other group answers Amen and then switch over the groups. The proper way to do the brachos is in a specific order. Mezonot, Hagefen, Haetz, Haadama, and then Shehakol. An example of foods in the correct order would be cookies, grape-juice, almonds, peanuts, and lastly candies.
When reciting each bracha, intentionally ask for a specific corresponding blessing. Mezonot corresponds to parnassah, Hagefen corresponds to finding a soulmate, Haetz corresponds to fertility, Haadama corresponds to health, and Shehakol corresponds to general success.
Another nice concept is to perform a collective hafrashat challah. Let each participant knead the dough and request that their specific challenge be answered. Also pray for a deliverance and a salvation of the hostages, that all of our soldiers should come back complete and healthy both physically and mentally, for our enemies to be decimated and annihilated, and for quieter and more peaceful days for the nation of Israel as well as for the entire world.
Once the dough is properly kneaded, take a handful of dough in your hands and recite the bracha ברוך אתה ה’ אלוקינו מלך העולם אשר קדשנו במצוותיו וציונו להפריש חלה מן העיסה. Then hold the piece of dough up high and recite in unison הרי זו חלה.
A meaningful and uplifting hafrashat challah is not complete without pertinent songs to infuse the air with joyful and hopeful inspiration. I’ve chosen a few pieces of music which I think are most fitting for the ceremony.
אבינו מלכנו – הילה בן דוד | AVINU MALKEINU – Hila Ben David