Blessings of Wonder: Rediscovering Rare Berachot (Blessings)

Judaism teaches us to pause and acknowledge the remarkable. Beyond the daily prayers and blessings for food or mitzvot (commandments), there exists a lesser-known category of blessings called "birchot ha-re’iyah" (blessings recited upon seeing unique or awe-inspiring sights). These blessings elevate everyday experiences into sacred moments, reminding us that the world is full of Divine fingerprints. Though some are rarely said today, they remain powerful expressions of wonder, wisdom, and gratitude.

When the Unusual Warrants a Blessing

"Blessed is He Who reestablishes the widow's boundary"
Our Sages teach that when one sees Jewish homes firmly established (according to most opinions, this refers specifically to homes in the Land of Israel), one should recite the blessing "Baruch Meitziv Gevul Almanah" (“Blessed is He Who reestablishes the widow’s boundary”). However, because Jewish settlements are now commonplace in Israel, this blessing is no longer typically recited, as the purpose of birchot ha-re’iyah is to acknowledge new or striking phenomena. Still, some authorities maintain that the blessing may be said upon seeing new Jewish communities established in previously uninhabited areas. One view extends this blessing to synagogues rebuilt on former ruins or new ground. Indeed, the late Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, of blessed memory, recited this blessing upon the reopening of the Churva Synagogue in Jerusalem's Old City after its restoration.

"Blessed is He who changes the creatures"
According to the Mishnah, encountering one of several different unusual creatures would prompt the recitation of this blessing. In our times, this includes animals such as elephants and monkeys encountered in a zoo. All authorities agree that these animals qualify for the blessing: "Baruch Meshaneh HaBriyot" (“Blessed is He Who changes the creatures”).

When the Moment Reflects Divine Wisdom or Forbearance

"Blessed is the wise knower of secrets"
Upon witnessing a gathering of 600,000 Jews in one place, one recites the rare blessing "Baruch Chacham HaRazim" (“Blessed is the wise knower of secrets”). There is debate among Halachic authorities whether this blessing applies only when such a crowd gathers in the Land of Israel or anywhere in the world. It is an exceedingly rare occasion. One documented instance occurred during a massive protest in 2014 against the drafting of yeshiva students. With over 600,000 in attendance, Rabbi Baruch Mordechai Ezrachi recited the blessing, and the crowd responded with a resounding “Amen.”

"Blessed is He who has such things in His world"
When one encounters something exceptionally beautiful - whether a striking tree, an impressive animal, or a remarkably beautiful person - they recite the blessing "Baruch Shekacha Lo BeOlamo" (“Blessed is He Who has such things in His world”). For example, a uniquely majestic tree or an extraordinary horse might inspire this blessing. It can also be recited upon seeing a person of exceptional beauty, though due to modesty concerns, a man does not recite it upon seeing a woman.

"Blessed is He who gives patience to transgressors of His will"
This unusual blessing is recited upon seeing idolatry: "Baruch Shenatan Erech Apayim Le’ovrei Retzono" (“Blessed is He Who extends patience to transgressors of His will”). However, if one lives among idolaters and sees such images frequently, the blessing is not recited.

These rare blessings reflect a deep awareness of the world around us and remind us to respond to moments of wonder and significance with gratitude and reverence.