
Rabbi Eliyahu Farhi explores the blessings Shelo Asani Isha and She’asani Kirtzono —Why do men thank Hashem for not being women—and women thank Hashem for being made “ as He willed”? Far from a statement of superiority or inequality, these berachot teach the power of acceptance: that Hashem places each person in their perfect role, with their own challenges, tools, and opportunities for growth. Hashem knew that men, left to their own devices, could easily become consumed by work, distraction, and ego—so He gave men structure: fixed times, clear routines, and daily mitzvot to pull us back to Him. Women, by contrast, were created with a natural spiritual sensitivity that keeps them connected without as much external framework. True peace comes when we stop comparing, stop wishing for someone else’s life, and embrace the divine wisdom in our own.