When someone you care about is sick, recovering from surgery, or facing a difficult diagnosis, words can sometimes feel hard to find. Worry can fill your mind, and you may feel helpless, longing to offer comfort or hope. In these moments, the Jewish prayer for recovery—especially the beloved Mi Shebeirach—is a time-honored way to bring strength, encouragement, and blessing. Whether you’re sitting by a hospital bed, joining voices at synagogue, or whispering a prayer at home, these words connect us to ancient tradition and the loving power of community.
Jewish prayers for recovery aren’t just about asking for a miracle cure. They’re about opening our hearts, supporting the person who is ill, and surrounding them with love, hope, and the healing presence of God. The act of praying—alone or with others—can be a powerful medicine in itself.
What Is the Mi Shebeirach?
The most well-known Jewish prayer for healing is the Mi Shebeirach (pronounced “mee sheh-BAY-rahkh”), which literally means “May the One who blessed.” Traditionally recited after the Torah reading in synagogue, it can also be said anywhere: in hospitals, homes, and even online. The prayer asks God—who blessed the ancestors—to send a complete healing to the person who is sick, mentioning them by name.
The Mi Shebeirach is more than just a formula; it’s a heartfelt plea for God’s compassion. It is also a reminder that we are never alone, that our prayers and presence can make a real difference in someone’s journey to recovery.
Mi Shebeirach (Hebrew, Transliteration, and English)
Below are the traditional words of the Mi Shebeirach in Hebrew, transliteration, and English. You can add the Hebrew or English name of the person you are praying for—ideally, their name and their mother’s name (for example, “Moshe ben Sarah” for Moses, son of Sarah), but any name is okay if that’s all you know.
Mi Shebeirach (Hebrew):
מִי שֶׁבֵּרַךְ אֲבוֹתֵינוּ וְאִמּוֹתֵינוּ
הוא יְבָרֵךְ וְיִרְפָּא אֶת הַחוֹלֶה/הַחוֹלָה (name).
הַקָּדוֹשׁ בָּרוּךְ הוּא יִמַלֵּא רַחֲמִים עָלָיו/עָלֶיהָ לְהַחֲלִימוֹ/ה לְרַפְאוֹ/ה,
לְהָשִׁיבוֹ/ה לְחַיִּים.
שְׁלַח לוֹ/לָה מְהֵרָה רְפוּאָה שְׁלֵמָה,
רְפוּאַת הַנֶּפֶשׁ וּרְפוּאַת הַגוּף,
עִם שְׁאָר חוֹלֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל.
בְּמַהֵרָה בִּזְמַן קָרוֹב.
וְנֹאמַר אָמֵן.
Mi Shebeirach (Transliteration):
Mi shebeirach avoteinu v’imoteinu,
Hu yevarech v’yirpa et hacholeh/hacholah (name).
HaKadosh Baruch Hu yimalei rachamim alav/aleha l’hachlimo/l’hachlimah, l’rafo/rafa’ah,
l’hashivo/l’hashivah l’chaim.
Sh’lach lo/lah meheira r’fuah shleimah,
r’fuat hanefesh u’refu’at haguf,
im she’ar cholei Yisrael.
B’mehira bizman karov.
V’nomar amen.
Mi Shebeirach (English Translation):
May the One who blessed our ancestors—
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah—
bless and heal the one who is ill, (name).
May the Holy Blessed One overflow with compassion upon them,
to restore them, to heal them, to strengthen them, to enliven them.
May God send them a complete healing—healing of body and healing of spirit—
along with all those who are ill, swiftly and soon.
And let us say, Amen.
How and When to Say the Jewish Prayer for Recovery
There’s no “wrong” way to offer a prayer for recovery. You can say it alone, with friends or family, in synagogue, at home, or even quietly in your heart. Some common times and ways to pray include:
- During synagogue services: Many congregations read the Mi Shebeirach aloud after the Torah reading, inviting people to call out the names of those in need.
- Before or after visiting someone who is sick: You might say the prayer together at a hospital, care home, or bedside.
- Lighting a candle or making a donation: Acts of tzedakah (charity) and kind deeds are part of Jewish healing tradition.
- In times of worry or waiting: Quietly repeating the Mi Shebeirach can be a source of comfort and hope while awaiting news or results.
- Online prayer lists: Many communities share names for healing in digital spaces, connecting prayers around the world.
Short Prayers for Recovery and Healing
- “El na, refa na la.” (“Please God, heal her now.”) — Numbers 12:13
- “Heal us, O Lord, and we shall be healed. Save us, and we shall be saved.” — Jeremiah 17:14
- “God, grant healing to (name) and all who are suffering. Bring comfort, courage, and strength.”
Even the shortest prayers can be powerful—what matters most is the love and intention you bring.
Bible Verses for Strength and Recovery
- “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18
- “I will restore health to you, and your wounds I will heal, declares the Lord.” — Jeremiah 30:17
- “The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness.” — Psalm 41:3
- “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God goes with you.” — Deuteronomy 31:6
Practical Ways to Support Recovery Alongside Prayer
- Offer help with daily needs: Meals, rides, or errands can ease the stress of illness.
- Send messages or cards: Even a short note lets someone know they are not alone.
- Practice bikur cholim (visiting the sick): Your presence—even virtually—can uplift the spirit and aid in healing.
- Give tzedakah: Acts of charity and kindness are a meaningful part of Jewish prayers for healing.
- Include the sick person’s name in synagogue or online prayer lists: Community prayer can feel like a spiritual embrace.
Encouragement for Those Facing a Long Recovery
Healing sometimes takes time, and the journey can be filled with ups and downs. If you’re the one who is ill, or if you’re supporting someone in recovery, remember:
- Every step forward is a victory—even small ones.
- It’s okay to feel scared, tired, or frustrated. Your feelings are part of the healing process.
- Ask for support—no one should have to recover alone.
- Remember the prayers, visits, and good wishes that surround you. They matter more than you know.
- Hold onto hope. Many have found new strength and unexpected blessings in the midst of recovery.
Prayer of Gratitude After Recovery
Baruch Atah Adonai, Blessed are You, Lord our God,
thank you for the healing and strength you have given.
May I (or my loved one) use renewed health for good,
remembering your kindness and sharing gratitude with others.
May all who are still suffering find comfort and wholeness soon.
Amen.
Final Blessing: Jewish Prayer for All in Need of Recovery
Mi Shebeirach, May the One who blesses and heals,
send comfort and strength to all who are ill.
May recovery come swiftly and fully—body, mind, and spirit.
May we know we are never alone,
and may hope, healing, and peace fill our days.
Amen.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Prayer and Community
Offering a Jewish prayer for recovery is more than just asking for a cure—it’s a way to wrap someone in love, community, and tradition. Whether you sing the Mi Shebeirach, recite a short verse, or simply hold a loved one in your heart, trust that every prayer is heard. Healing comes in many forms, and with each word, you become part of a long, beautiful chain of care. May all who need healing soon know health, hope, and peace.
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