AS: A Daily Dose of Pesukim of Bitachon – what an intriguing title. Please tell our readers what the book is about and what reciting “pesukim of bitachon” can accomplish for its readers.

RDS: “Pesukim of bitachon” are a compilation of pesukim from Tanach, primarily Tehillim, which discuss our reliance on Hashem, the trust we have in His goodness, and our belief that He cares for us. When these pesukim are recited and understood, they can bring great salvation and protection.

AS: The Maharal talks about a segulah of saying pesukim of bitachon, which is especially timely in view of today’s difficult situation. Can you please share his words with readers?

RDS: The Maharal’s words are quoted in Mishpat Tzedek (214) and in the early work Taharas HaKodesh by R’ Binyomin Wolf (p. 30). The Maharal recommends that a person should recite pesukim that speak about bitachon. Reciting these pesukim every day, he explains, strengthens a person’s trust in Hashem, which is one of the most fundamental precepts of Judaism. After reciting these pesukim, he adds, a person should pray to Hashem for help in acquiring the great quality of bitachon.

Besides the spiritual benefits of saying these bitachon-building verses, the Maharal points out tremendous benefits in this world, as described by earlier Sages and transmitted to him through the generations. These benefits include annulling harsh decrees. In fact, Maharal writes, it has been tested and proven that reciting these pesukim protects soldiers going to war, and it even helps businessmen when they travel for business or before they begin their workday. Certainly, these are benefits that we can all hope and pray for today.

AS: You chose to focus on pesukim of bitachon chosen by R’ Yosef Zundel of Salant. Please tell us a little about him.

RDS: Rav Yosef Zundel of Salant was a talmid of Rav Chaim of Volozhin and the rebbe of Rav Yisrael Salanter. A great tzaddik, he was particularly known for his immense bitachon.

AS: In the sefer, you explain and illustrate these pesukim with Torah insights and stories. How did you find such appropriate and powerful material, which enhances our understanding of bitachon and brings the pesukim to life?

RDS: I gave a daily shiur in these pesukim, using the basic commentaries. And, of course, the rest was up to Hashem.

Pull quote: When these pesukim are recited and understood, they can bring great salvation and protection.

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