Holidays / Shabbat / Shabbat Prayers And Blessings

Mi Shebeirach

-Debbie Friedman

The Mi Shebeirach is the most common and well-known Jewish blessing for healing. This blessing makes us cry, and not just sad-cry, especially when said in a group – it’s that powerful. It’s most commonly said at synagogue on Shabbat. Many rabbis have a poignant ritual of looking very slowly across the congregation, making eye contact with those of us in the pews, giving the chance for those of us in the pews to say out loud the name of someone who needs healing. This is also lovely because it is one of those rituals that’s a real community-maker. For example, if you say your sister’s name during Mi Shebeirach, then hopefully after services, someone will come over to you and inquire about what’s wrong, not because they are being nosy, but because they are concerned about you. One of the most beautiful aspects of community is knowing when someone amongst them is in pain so that they can help if they are able.

First line: Mi shebeirach avoteinu. Last line: Healing of the soul and healing of the body along with the ill, among the people of Israel and all humankind,  soon, speedily, without delay, Amen!…

Lighting Shabbat Candles

-Author Unknown

Lighting Shabbat candles is one of the oldest Jewish traditions. It’s also one of the most beautiful. Here is an explanation of not only how, but some of the beautiful traditions behind it.

First line: We light at least two candles on Shabbat. Last line: Blessed are You, God, Spirit of the Universe who has made us holy with Your mitzvot and commanded us to light the Shabbat light. Amen…

Kiddush (Blessing Over The Wine)

-Author Unknown

The blessing recited over wine or grape juice. Some families just do the first line (up to “Amen”) and others do the full blessing. As always, do whatever feels right to you!

First line: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, borei p’ree hagafen. Amen. Last line: Blessed are You, who sanctifies the Shabbat. Amen…

Wishes For My Child

-Author Unknown

This Shabbat blessing is a highlight for many families, and one of our faves at JewBelong. It gets right to the point of how deeply we love our children, no matter what stage of life they are in. Try putting your hand on your child’s head or your arm around him or her as you read out loud. Or, read it over FaceTime if you must. Children of all ages love to hear it, even if they say they don’t.

First line: Our dependent and delicious newborn. Last line: May my child be able to receive my blessings and to know my love is deep and unconditional…

For Every Step Along The Road...

-Author Unknown

This beautiful blessing is a favorite, especially for family Shabbats. It’s short and sweet, and your kids will appreciate it, even if they try to wiggle away at first.

First line: Here with you beside me, I feel so greatly blessed. Last line: So I lift my voice to offer you this prayer, for every step along the road, I will be there…

Traditional Children's Blessing

-Author Unknown

This short reading asks for God’s blessing for our children, and calls on the strength of our ancestors to protect and guide them.

First line: (FOR SONS) May God make you like Ephraim and Menasheh. Last line: May God reach out to you tenderly and give you peace…

Blessing To Our Friends And Family

-A JewBelong Original

Welcoming Shabbat as a group adds to the powerful experience of letting go of the past week and preparing for the week ahead. Plus, this reading is a great way to let friends know how much you appreciate them!

First line: Here with you beside me, I feel so greatly blessed. Last line: Allow us to use this Shabbat to help us rest and prepare our mind and body for the week ahead, and may this Shabbat be filled with joy and peace…

HaMotzi (Blessing Over The Bread)

-Author Unknown

This blessing is traditionally made over a challah, a sweet braided bread. If you don’t have a challah, use different bread, or even a cracker or pizza crust. Making the blessing is more important than the actual bread.

First line: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha-olam, hamotzi lechem min ha-aretz. Amen. Last line: Blessed are You, God, Spirit of the Universe, who brings forth bread from the earth. Amen…

Grace After The Meal

-Author Unknown

A lovely way to end your meal. This short blessing gives thanks for the food you’ve eaten and for feeling satisfied as a result.

First line: Baruch atah Adonai, Eloheinu melech ha’olam hazan et ha’olam kulo b’tuvo b’chen b’chesed w’rachamin. Last line: May the source of peace grant peace to us, to the Jewish people, and to the entire world…

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