In Psalm 136, the psalmist speaks of the mercies of Hashem, whose kindness endures forever, and directs us to praise Him. We are to give thanks "To Him Who alone performs great wonders (v. 4)." The verse may be understood to mean that only G-D performs great deeds; no other wonders equal His. G-D’s power is peerless. The verse may also allude to the fact that G-D requires no partner in the performance of His miracles; He alone brings the extraordinary to life. The Sages add yet another explanation. There are times when we simply fail to recognize the wonders that Hashem performs on our behalf. We are blind to the miraculous in our midst. In those instances, G-D alone is aware of the wonders that He has wrought. By acknowledging the unseen Divine miracles in our midst, we begin the journey toward recognition of G-D’s merciful and generous presence in our lives.

 

Copyright, 2008 Rachel Lerner