Jewish blessings are reminders to appreciate and celebrate the goodness in the ordinary, and special, moments in life. Here are some basic Jewish blessings to know:
Celebrating being present for something new
Barukh Atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh ha-olam, sheh-heh-khi-yanu v’key’manu v’hee-gee-anu laz’man ha-zeh.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our God, Universal Ruling Presence, Who keeps us in Life always, Who supports the unfolding of our uniqueness, and Who brings us to this very moment for blessing.
Blessing over wine or grape juice
Barukh Atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh ha-olam, boray p’ree ha-gafen.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our God, Universal Ruling Presence, Who creates the fruit of the vine.
Blessing over bread (beginning a meal)
Barukh Atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh ha-olam, ha-motzee lekhem min ha-aretz.
Blessed are You, Eternal One our God, Universal Ruling Presence, Who brings forth bread from the earth.
When lighting candles for a holiday
Barukh Atah Adonai, Eloheynu Melekh ha-olam, asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat (or shel yom tov).
Blessed are You, Eternal One our God, Universal Ruling Presence, Who sanctifies us with mitzvot [paths of holiness] and gives us the mitzvah of kindling Shabbat (or Festival) lights.
