Ahavah Rabbah, literally meaning "great love" in Hebrew, is a blessing recited in Judaism as part of the morning prayer service (Shacharit). It’s specifically said by Ashkenazi Jews (those with European traditions) right before the Shema, a central prayer.
Ahavah rabbah ahavtanu, Adonai Eloheinu, hemlah g’dolah viteirah hamalta aleinu. Ba-avur avoteinu v’imoteinu shebat’hu v’kha va-t’lamdeim hukei hayim, kein t’honeinu u-t’lamdeinu.
Deep is Your love for us, Adonai our God, boundless Your tender compassion. Our ancestors – men and women – trusted in You, and You taught them life-giving laws. For their sake graciously teach us, Merciful One, and show us mercy.
It expresses God’s immense love for the Jewish people and the gift of the Torah.
The blessing highlights that God’s love is shown through the Torah, which guides moral actions and inspires meaningful lives. Just as loving parents give their children rules and guidance, the Torah is seen as a way God expresses his love.
There are variations in wording depending on Jewish traditions (Ashkenazi vs. Sephardi).
