Blessings for the Big Game

When it comes to Judaism, there seems to be a blessing for everything. Since the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams are playing Super Bowl 53 in Atlanta on Feb. 3, a few extra blessings couldn’t hurt.

The last time the Rams won the Super Bowl was in Atlanta when the team was still the St. Louis Rams. In 1980, the L.A. Rams played — but lost — to the Pittsburgh Steelers during the Super Bowl at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena (19-31).

The only time an L.A. team has won a Super Bowl was in 1984, when the L.A. Raiders destroyed the Washington Redskins — 38-9.

This year, we are rallying the troops and have compiled special blessings for the L.A. Rams from some of their rabbinical fans. Kein Yehi Ratzon (May It Be So)!

Rabbi David Wolpe
Sinai Temple, Los Angeles
Dear God, help the players avoid hurt and humiliation, and help the fans realize that ultimately, sports should be cathartic and joyful. Amen. (P.S. And may the Rams win!)

Rabbi Jill Zimmerman
Hineni, Orange County
May all the players stay warm and free from serious injury, may the refs judge fairly and may the fans be treated to the joy of camaraderie and great food.

Rabbi Eli Fink
Writer
“May the piercing sound of our Ram’s horn inspire our heroes to Super Bowl victory signaling the final stage of our redemption from exile and triumphant return to our true home – the Promised Land of Los Angeles. Amen. (Modern retelling of Isaiah 27:13)”

Rabbi Joshua Hoffman
Valley Beth Shalom, Encino
“And the mighty Ram’s horn blasted as the voice of God was heard.” (Ex: 19:19) May the blast of the shofar and the formidable Los Angeles Rams offense bring the sounds of victory and great celebration!

Rabbi Dalia Samansky
Temple Ahavat Shalom, Northridge
Baruch Atah Adonai- Blessed are You Adonai our God – Who blesses the referees with open eyes, a discerning heart, and the wisdom to make accurate calls. May Your spirit rest upon them as they call plays, review tapes, and make decisions. Bless Sunday with good weather, better commercials, and even better food! May the One who makes peace in the heavens, make a fair rivalry here for this weekend, between the Rams and the Patriots, and let us say; Amen

Salvador Litvak
The Accidental Talmudist
May the Almighty grant that we and our loved ones enjoy a safe, fair, hard-fought Super Bowl in which all participants reach their full potential… and the Rams bury the Patriots!