The complete prayer book of Reb Elimelech—Tefilas HaRav—including the Tzetel Katan, in an elegant leather binding.
The holy prayer of Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk, known as Tefillah Kodem HaTefillah (Prayer Before Prayer), printed in most traditional siddurim, is recited with deep emotion and inspiration by countless Jews following the path of the Baal Shem Tov and Chassidus.
Size: 6" X 6"
Reb Elimelech's Tefillah
This prayer, well-known for its spiritual depth, has undergone various versions and adaptations over time. While some extended it, others shortened it, leading to differences in the text found in various sources.
In the sefer Niflaos HaSaba Kadisha, the holy Radoshitzer Rebbe explains the origin of the prayer. It recounts how lofty souls once visited Reb Elimelech, requesting that he refrain from altering the standard text of Jewish prayers. Instead, he composed a unique, concise prayer to help those unable to fully concentrate during the regular prayers. This is the prayer we know today as Tefillah Kodem HaTefillah.
Over the generations, multiple versions of this prayer have emerged, particularly in its closing sections. Early manuscripts and siddurim, such as Nehora HaShalem (published in 1815) and later editions, feature notable differences. Some versions even include extended lines not present in today’s standard texts.
In 1897, the prayer was published by the Biala Rebbe, R’ Yitzchak Yaakov, based on a manuscript passed down through generations of tzaddikim, tracing back to the Chozeh of Lublin. This version is almost twice the length of the commonly printed text and was recently republished with detailed introductions in the Biala Chelkas Yehoshua siddur.
The legacy of this prayer, rooted in Reb Elimelech’s vision to uplift all who struggle to focus during prayer, continues to inspire and elevate countless souls.
