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Prayer for the Sick Hebrew: Essential, Complete Guide with 5 Steps

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prayer for the sick hebrew

Prayer for the sick hebrew: meaning, texts, and how to use it

The phrase prayer for the sick hebrew usually refers to Mi Sheberach, a traditional Jewish prayer recited on behalf of someone who is ill. People turn to it for comfort, solidarity, and hope, asking God to send refuah shleimah—complete healing of body and spirit. Whether you are new to Jewish prayers or simply looking for clear, practical guidance, this comprehensive guide explains what the prayer is, how to say it at home or in synagogue, and how to personalise it with names and intention.

In this article, you will learn the background, core texts, translations, and transliterations of the prayer for the sick hebrew, alongside tips, common mistakes to avoid, and examples you can adapt. You will also find reputable external resources and related reading if you want to go further.

What is prayer for the sick hebrew (Mi Sheberach)?

At its heart, the prayer for the sick hebrew asks for God’s compassionate care for someone who is unwell. The most widespread version is called Mi Sheberach (“May the One who blessed…”), traditionally recited in the synagogue after the Torah reading, though many people also say it privately at home, at a hospital bedside, or within a community support group.

The prayer invokes the merit of the ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah—and petitions the “Holy Blessed One” to bless and heal the person named. In many communities, it ends with a request for refuah shleimah, “a complete healing,” both physical and spiritual.

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Origins and meaning

The custom of praying for the sick appears throughout classic Jewish sources. One of the earliest models is Moses’ brief plea for Miriam: “El na, refa na la”—“Please, God, please heal her” (Numbers 12:13). Over centuries, synagogues developed a communal blessing—Mi Sheberach—to include names of those in need of healing, reinforcing the shared responsibility of care, or bikur cholim (visiting and supporting the sick).

Praying does not replace medical care; rather, it complements it. Within Jewish life, prayer, practical support, and charity (tzedakah) often go hand in hand. The prayer for the sick hebrew encourages kindness, attention, and spiritual resilience alongside treatment.

Core texts of prayer for the sick hebrew

Below are commonly used forms of the prayer for the sick hebrew, including Hebrew, transliteration, and clear English translations. You can read these aloud, adapt them to include a person’s name, and recite them in moments of need.

Mi Sheberach (standard synagogue form)

Hebrew:
מי שברך אבותינו אברהם יצחק ויעקב, אמותינו שרה רבקה רחל ולאה, הוא יברך וירפא את החולה [שם] בן/בת [שם האם], בתוך שאר חולי ישראל. הקדוש ברוך הוא ימלא רחמים עליו/עליה, להחזיקו/להחזיקה ולרפאותו/לרפאותה, ולהחיותו/להחיותה, וישלח לו/לה מהרה רפואה שלמה מן השמים, רפואה הנפש ורפואה הגוף, בתוך שאר חולי ישראל, ונאמר אמן.

Transliteration (guide):
Mi sheberach avoteinu Avraham, Yitzchak, v’Ya’akov; imoteinu Sarah, Rivkah, Rachel v’Leah; hu yevarech v’yirpa et hacholeh [Shem] ben/bat [Shem ha’em], betoch she’ar cholei Yisrael. Hakadosh Baruch Hu yimalei rachamim alav/aleha, lehachziko/lehachzika u’leraf’oto/leraf’otah, u’le’hachayoto/lehachayotah, v’yishlach lo/lah meheirah refuah shleimah min hashamayim, refuat hanefesh u’refuat haguf, betoch she’ar cholei Yisrael, v’nomar: Amen.

English meaning:
May the One who blessed our ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah—bless and heal the sick person [Name], child of [Mother’s Name], among all the ill of Israel. May the Holy Blessed One overflow with compassion upon him/her, to strengthen and heal him/her, to restore and sustain him/her, and to enliven him/her. May God send him/her speedily a complete healing from heaven, a healing of soul and a healing of body, among all who are ill, and let us say: Amen.

A short prayer for the sick (Numbers 12:13)

Hebrew: אל נא רפא נא לה
Transliteration: El na, refa na la (for “her”); El na, refa na lo (for “him”)
English: Please, God, please heal her/him.

This concise line can be said at any time and is deeply rooted in the Torah. It’s a helpful option when you want to offer a heartfelt prayer for the sick hebrew in moments where time or words are limited.

Psalms often used for healing

  • Psalm 121 (Shir Lama’alot) – seeking help from the Divine: “I lift my eyes to the mountains…”
  • Psalm 130 (Out of the depths) – a plea from distress, hoping for redemption and mercy.
  • Psalm 20 – trust in God’s support in times of need.

Many people combine these Psalms with the prayer for the sick hebrew, reciting one or more Psalms before or after Mi Sheberach.

How to say prayer for the sick hebrew step by step

Saying the prayer is simple, but a few details make it more meaningful and respectful. Here’s a straightforward approach you can use at home or in synagogue.

  1. Set your intention (kavanah): Take a quiet breath. Hold the person in mind with kindness and focus. Intention adds depth to the prayer for the sick hebrew.
  2. Use the person’s name: In Jewish custom, you use the ill person’s Hebrew name and their mother’s name (for example, “Reuven ben Sarah,” “Leah bat Rivkah”). If you don’t know Hebrew names, use their usual name and parent’s name as best you can, or simply say “for [Name], among all who are ill.”
  3. Choose the text: Use the full Mi Sheberach or the short “El na, refa na la/lo.” Add a Psalm if you wish.
  4. Speak slowly and clearly: It’s better to say less with attention than more in a rush. The prayer for the sick hebrew benefits from gentle pace and sincerity.
  5. Conclude with “Amen”: If others are present, invite them to say “Amen.” The communal response reinforces solidarity.
  6. Consider adding action: After praying, some give tzedakah (charity) in the person’s merit, check in with them, or offer practical help. Judaism values prayer together with compassionate action.

When and where to use prayer for the sick hebrew

You can say the prayer for the sick hebrew in many settings:

  • Synagogue: Most congregations offer a Mi Sheberach for those who are ill, often after the Torah reading. You can submit names in advance or speak to the service leader.
  • Home or hospital: Recite privately, with family, or at a bedside. Holding hands or a brief silence beforehand can set a caring tone.
  • Community gatherings: During support groups, communal meals, or visits arranged by a bikur cholim committee, the prayer can be a source of shared strength.
  • Special times: Shabbat and festivals are meaningful moments, but the prayer for the sick hebrew can be said any day, any time.

Don’t worry if you’re not fluent in Hebrew. A clear English translation, a gentle transliteration, and sincere intent are all welcome. The essential point is compassion and connection.

Tips, pronunciation help, and common mistakes to avoid

It’s easy to feel unsure the first time you say the prayer for the sick hebrew. These simple pointers will help you feel confident and respectful.

  • Names and privacy: Ask permission before sharing someone’s name publicly in a synagogue list. Some prefer “for a friend in need of healing” to protect privacy.
  • Hebrew name format: Traditionally, use the mother’s name: “X ben [son of]/bat [daughter of] Y.” If unknown, use the best information you have or the person’s common name.
  • Pronunciation cues: “Refuah shleimah” is reh-FOO-ah SHLAY-mah (complete healing). “Mi Sheberach” is mee sheh-BEH-rakh.
  • Don’t promise outcomes: The prayer for the sick hebrew asks for healing and strength; it doesn’t guarantee results. Avoid language that burdens the ill with expectations.
  • Include both body and soul: Many versions ask for “refu’at hanefesh u’refu’at haguf”—healing of spirit and body—recognising the whole person.
  • Prayer and care together: Prayer is powerful, and so is practical help. Check what support the person and their carers need.
  • Avoid superstition: Stay grounded and sensitive. The goal is comfort, hope, and dignity.

Examples and templates you can personalise

Here are simple templates to adapt when offering the prayer for the sick hebrew for different situations. Replace the placeholders with the person’s name(s). If you’re unsure about Hebrew names, use English names—it is still meaningful.

Full Mi Sheberach (gender-neutral English)


“May the One who blessed our ancestors—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah—bless and heal [Name], child of [Mother’s Name]. May the Holy Blessed One send a complete healing of body and spirit, swiftly and soon, together with all who are ill. Amen.”

Short bedside prayer

“El na, refa na la/lo—Please, God, please heal her/him. Grant [Name] strength, comfort, and full recovery. Amen.”

For multiple names

“We pray for refuah shleimah for [Name A] child of [Mother’s Name A], and for [Name B] child of [Mother’s Name B], together with all who are ill. May healing and comfort come swiftly. Amen.”

If the person is not Jewish

“Compassionate One, please bring complete healing to [Name], restoring body and spirit, together with all who are ill. May strength, wisdom, and comfort surround them and their caregivers. Amen.”

Adding Psalms

Before or after the prayer for the sick hebrew, read Psalm 121 or Psalm 130 aloud. Conclude with: “May these words and our prayers bring healing and peace. Amen.”

Background: why prayer and community matter

Jewish tradition views each person as created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God. When illness strikes, communities are encouraged to uphold dignity and provide support through visits, meals, encouragement, and prayer. The prayer for the sick hebrew is one expression of this shared responsibility. It weaves personal concern into the life of the community and places hope in God while emphasising compassion and practical care.

It also offers language when words are hard to find. In times of fear or uncertainty, familiar phrases and well-loved Psalms provide a gentle structure to hold our emotions. Over time, many discover that reciting Mi Sheberach becomes a weekly touchpoint for empathy and resilience.

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Frequently asked questions about prayer for the sick hebrew

Do I need to know Hebrew to say the prayer?

No. You can use the transliteration and English translation. The intention to bless and support the person who is ill is what matters most. If you are comfortable with a few Hebrew words, that’s wonderful, but it isn’t required to offer the prayer for the sick hebrew meaningfully.

How do I include someone’s name correctly?

Traditionally, use the person’s Hebrew name and their mother’s name: “X ben [son of]/bat [daughter of] Y.” If you don’t know this, simply use the names you have (“[First Name] child of [Parent]”) or say “for [Name], among all who are ill.” The prayer for the sick hebrew is valid even if you do not have full details.

When during a synagogue service is Mi Sheberach said?

Commonly after the Torah reading on Shabbat or weekdays, though practices vary by community. Many congregations invite people to submit names in advance. If in doubt, ask the service leader when the prayer for the sick hebrew will be recited.

Is it appropriate to pray for non-Jews using this prayer?

Yes. Jewish teachings affirm the value of all human life, and many communities include language such as “among all who are ill.” You can adapt the wording of the prayer for the sick hebrew to include anyone in need of healing.

Can I say the prayer at home or only in synagogue?

You can say it anywhere—at home, in hospital, or with friends. The synagogue offers a communal setting, but personal prayer is also encouraged. Many people recite a Psalm, then the prayer for the sick hebrew, and conclude with “Amen.”

What is refuah shleimah, and why is it included?

Refuah shleimah means “complete healing.” It asks for wholeness of body and spirit. Including this phrase in the prayer for the sick hebrew expresses hope for holistic recovery—physical strength, emotional peace, and spiritual comfort.

Should I give charity when I say the prayer?

Many choose to give tzedakah (charity) in the name of the person who is ill, reflecting Judaism’s emphasis on pairing prayer with action. This is not a requirement, but it is a meaningful custom to accompany the prayer for the sick hebrew.

Conclusion on prayer for the sick hebrew

Mi Sheberach, the prayer for the sick hebrew, offers a time-tested, compassionate way to express hope, solidarity, and faith when someone you care about is unwell. Grounded in biblical and communal tradition, it is simple enough to

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