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We now understand Rashi’s verbosity in explaining the Mishna. In order for Rabbi Chanina to pray for the individual, or a Shatz to pray for the Tzibbur, he must be motivated so his prayer flows from his heart without stammer or stumble. If one is truly interested in the welfare of another person, he will be very careful and erudite in his prayer. Rabbi Chanina was emulating Avraham the Navi whose prayer on behalf of Avimelech was Niv Sefasayim. If the prayer is truly Niv Sefasayim, it will result in peace to those in need, be they near or far.
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