In which the Gemara dives deep to address the formulation of the blessing over bread — is it “Motzi” or the “HaMotzi” we all know? The big difference seems to be whether the blessing is to be uttered in past or present tense – and the prooftexts for each take us back to the Exodus from Egypt, or better: when God *took us out* of Egypt. A personal favorite segment of this discussion is the consultation with the “Berakhot Expert,” and his apparent diplomacy. But the more significant is the transformation implicit in the allusion to the Exodus — and the making of bread.

Also: Who’s Who – Ulla.

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Happy Tu Be’Shevat!

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