The 13 Ikkarei Emunah, the Ani Maamins, appear in our siddurim, and many of us recite them every day after tefillah. And yet … do we understand what they mean in our own everyday lives and actions?
That was a question people were asking before the release of Ani Maamin – A Mission for Life, a groundbreaking work by Rabbi Yechezkel Elias that examines each of the 13 Ikkarei Emunah.
They ask that question no more.
Using contemporary examples that we can all understand and relate to, Rabbi Elias makes the often difficult concepts contained in the 13 Ikkarim clear, comprehensible, and very, very relevant. Each Ikkar is followed by a section titled How does this affect my daily life? which shows us how to put these foundational beliefs into practice in our own lives.
This book shows us how it’s done.
The Ani Maamin Initiative was created l’ilui nishmas habachur Dovi Steinmetz z”l, one of the 45 precious neshamos who lost their lives in the Meron Lag Ba’omer tragedy. Created by Dovi’s father, Reb Shloimi Steinmetz, the initiative has successfully encouraged thousands to say the 13 Ikkarei Emunah. As part of the initiative, Rabbi Elias gave a series of shiurim on each of the 13 Ikkarei Emunah, which form the basis of this beautifully presented book.
“These are the basic building blocks of who we are, and it is critical to define these ideas correctly,” says Rabbi Elias, whose goal was to help people realize that these are not abstract or esoteric ideas. “These are basic ideas for each and every Jew. The work puts these concepts into terms that we can all easily grasp, appreciate, and grow with.”
Indeed it does, as evidenced by the thousands who are reading this book – and growing from it.
“Investing a little bit of thought and focus doesn’t take much time,” observes Rabbi Elias. “Considering that it’s our very purpose in life we’re discussing, it’s well worth the effort. As with everything, if you read the instruction manual, you’ll know how to use something effectively. These concepts reframe where we’re going in life, the purpose of our mission, and how to define success. If you understand these lessons, you’ll be able to plug everything you do in life into this system and truly chart a path forward.”
Beyond being able to proceed down the right road in life, there’s a tremendous sense of serenity that comes from reading this new book, explains the author. “I understand that Hashem’s in charge, He’s in full control, and it’s Him who I’m here to please. I can rest confidently with Him in the driver’s seat, and focus securely on fulfilling my mission.”
To purchase this bestselling book and begin experiencing the “Ani Maamin serenity,” CLICK HERE.
WATCH Inside ArtScroll interviews with the author, Rabbi Yechezkel Elias, HERE, and with Reb Shloimi Steinmetz HERE.
