Quotation על סנהדרין 83:13

(Fol. 41, b) R. Acha b. Chanina said in the name of R. Jochanan: "He who pronounces the benediction of the new moon in its due time, is considered as if he were greeting the Divine presence. It is written here (Ex. 12, 2) [Concerning the new-moon] this month (Hazeh). And it is also written (Ib. 15, 2) He (Zeh) is my God and I will declare His praise." In the school of R. Ishmael it was taught: "If Israelites were permitted to greet their Father in heaven only once a month, it would be sufficient." "Therefore," said Abaye, "we must pronounce the above benediction standing." Mreimar and Mar Zutra used to stand shoulder to shoulder, pronouncing this benediction. R. Acha said to R. Ashi: "In the West (land of Israel) they used to pronounce the following benediction: Blessed be He who renews the moon." And he answered "Such a blessing our woman also pronounce." We, however, have [adopted] that which was composed by R. Juda: "Blessed be He who with His words has created the heavens, and with the breath of His mouth all their hosts, which He gave order and time, that they should not change His command; and they rejoice and are happy in doing the will of their Creator. They work truthfully, and what is done through them is truth. And to the moon He commanded that she renew herself every month, and that she should be a crown [and a guide] to the people who were selected by Him from their birth. It is a symbol to them (children of Israel) that, finally, they also will be renewed like her (the moon), and they will praise their Creator, His name, and the glory of His Kingdom. Praised be Thou, Eternal, who dost renew the moon."