Wednesday, August 24, 2011

What is the blessing for an earthquake?

The Gemara [Brachos 54a] tells us that whoever witnesses an earthquake, as well as a number of other natural phenomena in which Hashem’s awesome power is apparent, should immediately say either one of the following two brachos:
 
Baruch Atta Hashem Elokeinu Melech ha’olam osei ma’asei bereishis.
Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, who reenacts the works of creation.

Baruch Atta Hashem Elokeinu Melech ha’olam shekocho ugevuraso malei olam.
Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the universe, whose power and might fill the world.

This helps bring into focus how the forces of nature are all truly from G‑d and expressions of His majesty.

Source: Menachem Posner, Matzav.com Newscenter

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

try 59A for the source in Brochos.

Thanks.