Gratitude

Gratitude is the theme of the first prayer uttered upon waking up in the morning, Modeh Ani (“I give thanks”) and drives many other Jewish practices and customs: the recitation of Hallel on Jewish holidays is an expression of thanks for God’s miracles, many understand the obligation of honoring one’s parents to be an embodiment of gratitude, and countless Jewish blessings, prayers, and psalms give voice to feelings of thankfulness.