Prayer from the Narrow Straits - from 17 Tammuz to 9 Av
Sephardic Mekubalim recommend the following prayers during these 21 days:
1. The 42 Encampments in the Wilderness - the Prayer of Rabbi Shimshon of Ostropoli for shemirah (protection) during these 21 days.
[The prayer and the importance of prayer here]:
42 Encampments in the Wilderness — the Segula of Rabbi Shimshon of Ostropol
2. “Parashat HaMan” and all prayers and segulot for parnassah—these days are considered days of shefa for parnassah.
According to Kabbalah, times are divided into periods of
“gadlut” and
“katnut.”
The
21 days of Bein HaMetzarim belong to the period of
“katnut” (contraction, diminution—a narrow time).
But the Sages teach that when one prays from a narrow place, during a narrow time [in the Straits]—and parnassah is what is most difficult to receive—then the reward is greater as well.
Rabbeinu Bachya teaches us that at 3 a.m. Hashem learns
“Parashat HaMan,” and this is the time when Hashem gave the manna. Therefore, it is a special honor for all of us to connect to this channel of blessing and recite this prayer at that time.
[The prayer and the importance of prayer here]:
Parashat HaMan in the format of "Shnayim Mikra ve-Echad Targum" - Aramaic
3. Rabbeinu Tam’s Protective Prayer
For protection throughout all 21 days.
The Protective Prayer of Rabbeinu Tam
4. Tikkun Chatzot
Beginning on
17 Tammuz—those who do not recite it should add
Tikkun Chatzot for the 21 days, until 10 Av.
[The prayer and the importance of prayer here]:
Tikun Chatzot - Tikun Leah and Tikun Rachel (Transliteration)
May we already greet Mashiach together on 9 Av this year!
(Based on video lessons by the Gaon Yehuda Turjeman and Rav Yisrael Yakovov)
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