In times of sickness and pain, prayer can be a comforting and powerful source of hope. Across Jewish tradition, prayers for healing known as refuah shlema (complete healing), have been passed down for centuries.
Whether you are praying for yourself, a loved one, or a community member, turning to a Jewish prayer for healing can provide comfort, strength, and hope.
This blog post offers 40 powerful Jewish prayer for healing; some traditional, some inspired by Scripture, and others tailored for everyday use. These prayers can be used individually or in groups, and many are perfect for bedside reading, synagogue services, or quiet meditation.
What is a Jewish Prayer for Healing?
A Jewish prayer for healing is a spiritual invocation asking God (Hashem) to restore health and wholeness; physically, emotionally, or spiritually. Many of these prayers come from scripture, particularly the Psalms (Tehillim), while others have developed through liturgical traditions or personal devotion.
Healing prayers often mention Adonai Rofecha (“God your Healer”) and call upon God’s mercy, compassion, and restorative power. Jewish tradition teaches that praying for others, especially by name, is one of the most selfless and effective spiritual acts.
Powerful Jewish Prayer for Healing Anyone Can Pray
Below are powerful Jewish prayer anyone can pray:
Traditional Jewish Healing Prayers
Mi Shebeirach for the Sick
- “May the One who blessed our ancestors bless and heal [name]. May the Holy One have compassion upon them, restore them, strengthen them, and bring them peace.”
Refa’einu from the Amidah
- “Heal us, O Lord, and we shall be healed; save us and we shall be saved, for You are our praise.”
Psalm 6:2
- “Heal me, O Lord, for my bones are troubled.”
Psalm 30:2
- “O Lord my God, I cried unto You, and You have healed me.”
Isaiah 38:16
- “You restored me to health and let me live. Surely it was for my benefit that I suffered such anguish.”
These prayers are part of core Jewish worship and are often recited during synagogue services and personal devotionals.
Personal Prayers for Physical Healing
- “God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, please restore my strength and take away this sickness from me.”
- “May the Source of Life remove every affliction from my body and renew my strength day by day.”
- “Elohai, please cleanse my body of all illness and breathe new energy into my soul.”
- “Let Your healing light surround me like a shield, and let Your presence dwell within my heart.”
- “Adonai, remove every pain from my body and fill me with peace that passes understanding.”
These prayers reflect a personal approach to the Jewish prayer for healing, emphasizing individual connection to God.
Prayers for Mental and Emotional Healing
- “HaShem, calm my anxious heart and give me clarity of mind.”
- “May Your peace quiet the storm within me and bring harmony to my thoughts.”
- “God of mercy, remove the burden of depression and renew my joy.”
- “Let Your Spirit rest upon my mind, and silence every voice of fear and confusion.”
- “Heal my wounded heart, O God, and bring comfort to my soul.”
Mental and emotional challenges are just as significant as physical ones. These prayers highlight that God’s healing power can reach every part of our lives.
Prayers for Loved Ones
- “God of healing, please restore the health of my [mother/father/sibling/friend].”
- “May Your angels guard and protect them through every test and procedure.”
- “Bless the hands of every doctor and nurse caring for them, and may Your wisdom guide their treatment.”
- “Adonai, grant them restful sleep, quick recovery, and enduring peace.”
- “Wrap them in Your healing light and remove all affliction from their body.”
When praying for others, you are participating in the Jewish value of refuah shlema, praying for complete recovery.
Prayers for Healing in Community Settings
- “May those in our congregation who are ill be restored quickly and completely.”
- “May our collective prayers rise before You as incense, bringing healing to those in need.”
- “We ask for divine mercy on all who suffer silently, and strength for their caregivers.”
- “Bring healing to our community; body, mind, and spirit.”
- “Let our synagogue be a house of healing and peace for all who enter.”
- Jewish communities often pray together for healing during Shabbat and weekday services.
Scriptural-Based Healing Prayers
Psalm 103:2–3
- “Bless the Lord, O my soul, who heals all your diseases.”
Jeremiah 17:14
- “Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved.”
Exodus 15:26
- “For I am the Lord who heals you.”
Proverbs 4:20–22
- “They are life to those who find them, and health to one’s whole body.”
Psalm 147:3
- “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
These verses are often recited in moments of despair to reaffirm faith in God’s healing power.
Healing Prayers at Night
- “Before I sleep, I entrust my health to You, O God.”
- “Heal me as I rest, and awaken me to a day of strength.”
- “Let Your presence hover over me and drive out every pain.”
- “Even in the darkness, I believe You are near, restoring my body and soul.”
- “Grant me a night free from pain and a morning filled with hope.”
- Evening prayers help prepare the mind and body for peaceful rest and renewal.
Prayers for Healing After Trauma or Surgery
- “Thank You, God, for bringing me through surgery. Now grant me full recovery.”
- “HaShem, strengthen every cell, every bone, every organ within me.”
- “Give me courage to heal and patience through the process.”
- “Thank You for modern medicine and for the divine wisdom behind it.”
- “May my healing be a testimony of Your mercy and love.”
How to Use a Jewish Prayer for Healing
Speak the name of the person who needs healing (ideally their Hebrew name, if known).
- Light a candle or sit quietly.
- Say the prayer aloud or in your heart.
- Reflect and offer gratitude, even in small progress.
- Repeat regularly. Healing is a process, not an event.
Conclusion
The Jewish prayer for healing is a powerful tool for restoring hope, wellness, and spiritual strength. Whether you are dealing with physical illness, emotional wounds, or praying for someone else, these prayers can be used as lifelines in challenging times.
Let us remember the words of the Mi Shebeirach:
- “May the Source of strength who blessed the ones before us help us find the courage to make our lives a blessing.”
Take time each day to say a Jewish prayer for healing for yourself or someone in need. The power of prayer, coupled with faith, can bring about profound peace and restoration.
Read also: 40 Powerful Spiritual Prayers for Strength and Guidance