R Yitzchak Shifman Torah Classes

The birchos hashachar reflect the theme of thanking Hashem for allowing us to see the nekuda tova in ourselves that propels us from our "slumber" to "waking up" and to serve Hashem.

To reflect the "Ears" of Keter one must only allow himself to hear positive things.

Clarification of the position of R' Eliezer regarding number of mishmaros in the night and the way to distinguish them.

Dressing in the morning and the blessing of "malbish arumim" highlight the nekudos tovos that clothe the soul.

Reflecting the "Forehead", or the tolerance, of Keter allows us to placate people and assign them.

After finding and elevating the nekudos tovos through the initial three stages of tefilla, we approach shemona esreh and request the ability to speak in front of Him.

Just as the Chochma of Keter nevers ceases to think about good, holy thoughts, so too we must reflect this in constantly focusing on the Torah and not allow foreign thoughts to enter our minds.

Bereishit Rabba (Toldot) 63:5- The prayers of Yitzchak and Rivka reveal an important perspective regarding tefilla.

The second reason "Keter" looks downwards is that Hashem is constantly giving good to others, even if they have flaws. This should be reflected in our approach as well.

Beraitta argues on Mishna, holds that one should approach tefilla after learning halacha pesuka and Gemara provides examples.