Tefilat Haderech
Traveling can be both exciting and uncertain. For centuries, Jews have turned to Tefilat Haderech, the Traveler’s Prayer, to seek G-d’s protection and guidance on their journeys. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, flying across the globe, or simply commuting to work, this prayer offers comfort and reassurance. In this complete guide, you’ll find the Hebrew text, translation, transliteration, historical context, and practical tips for reciting Tefilat Haderech. Let’s dive in!
What is Tefilat Haderech?
Tefilat Haderech, also known as the Traveler’s Prayer, is a Jewish prayer recited for safety and protection during journeys. It asks G-d to guard travelers from physical dangers, such as accidents and robbers, as well as spiritual challenges. The prayer is rooted in Talmudic tradition and has been a source of comfort for Jewish travelers for generations.
Hebrew Text with Vowelization
Here is the full Hebrew text of Tefilat Haderech, complete with vowelization (nikud) for accurate pronunciation:
יְהִי רָצוֹן מִלְּפָנֶיךָ יְיָ אֱלֹהֵינוּ וֵאלֹהֵי אֲבוֹתֵינוּ, שֶׁתּוֹלִיכֵנוּ לְשָׁלוֹם וְתַצְעִידֵנוּ לְשָׁלוֹם, וְתַדְרִיכֵנוּ לְשָׁלוֹם, וְתַגִּיעֵנוּ לִמְחוֹז חֶפְצֵנוּ לְחַיִּים וּלְשִׂמְחָה וּלְשָׁלוֹם. (וְתַחֲזִירֵנוּ לְשָׁלוֹם). וְתַצִּילֵנוּ מִכַּף כָּל אוֹיֵב וְאוֹרֵב וְלִסְטִים וְחַיּוֹת רָעוֹת בַּדֶּרֶךְ, וּמִכָּל פֻּרְעָנִיּוֹת הַמִּתְרַגְּשׁוֹת לָבוֹא לָעוֹלָם. וְתִשְׁלַח בְּרָכָה בְּכָל מַעֲשֵׂה יָדֵינוּ, וְתִתְּנֵנִי לְחֵן וּלְחֶסֶד וּלְרַחֲמִים בְּעֵינֶיךָ וּבְעֵינֵי כָל רוֹאֵינוּ. וְתִגְמְלֵנוּ חֲסָדִים טוֹבִים, וְתִשְׁמַע קוֹל תְּפִלָּתֵנוּ, כִּי אַתָּה שׁוֹמֵעַ תְּפִלַּת כָּל פֶּה. בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יְיָ, שׁוֹמֵעַ תְּפִלָּה.
Transliteration for Easy Recitation
For those unfamiliar with Hebrew, here’s a clear transliteration:
Yehi ratzon milefanecha, Adonai Eloheinu veilohei avoteinu, shetolicheinu leshalom, v’tatzideinu leshalom, v’tadricheinu leshalom, v’tagi’einu limechoz cheftzeinu lechaim ul’simcha ul’shalom. (V’tachazireinu leshalom.) V’tatzileinu mikaf kol oyeiv v’oreiv v’listim v’chayot ra’ot baderech, umikol puraniyot hamitragshot lavo la’olam. V’tishlach bracha b’chol ma’aseh yadeinu, v’titneini lechein ul’chesed ul’rachamim b’einecha uv’einei kol ro’einu. V’tigmeleinu chasadim tovim, v’tishma kol tefilateinu, ki atah shomei’a tefilat kol peh. Baruch atah Adonai, shomei’a tefilah.
English Translation with Explanations
Here’s a detailed translation of Tefilat Haderech, along with explanations of key phrases:
“May it be Your will, L-rd our G-d and G-d of our fathers, that You lead us in peace, direct our steps in peace, guide us in peace, and bring us to our desired destination in life, joy, and peace. (And return us in peace.) Save us from the hands of every enemy and ambush, from robbers and wild beasts on the journey, and from all kinds of punishments that may come to the world. Grant blessing to the work of our hands, and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us. Bestow upon us abundant kindness and hear the voice of our prayer, for You hear the prayers of all. Blessed are You, L-rd, who hears prayer.”
- “Lead us in peace”: Asks for a safe and harmonious journey.
- “Save us from every enemy”: Seeks protection from physical and spiritual dangers.
- “Grant blessing to the work of our hands”: Requests success and productivity during the journey.
Historical and Halachic Sources
Tefilat Haderech is rooted in Talmudic tradition (Berachot 29b) and codified in the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 110:4). The prayer reflects the Jewish belief in G-d’s constant protection and the importance of seeking His guidance in all aspects of life, including travel.
When to Recite Tefilat Haderech
- Before a Trip: Recite the prayer when embarking on a journey outside your city limits.
- During a Journey: If the trip is long, some traditions recommend reciting the prayer each day.
- For Air Travel: Say the prayer before takeoff.
- For Others: You can recite Tefilat Haderech on behalf of family members or friends who are traveling.
Customs and Traditions
- Ashkenazi Tradition: Recite the prayer once per trip, ideally within the first parasang (approx. 4 miles) of the journey.
- Sephardic Tradition: Recite the prayer multiple times during the trip, especially when passing through dangerous areas.
- Adding Names: Some people insert the traveler’s name in the prayer (e.g., “May You protect [Name] on their journey”).
The Inner Meaning of the Prayer
Tefilat Haderech is more than a request for physical safety; it’s a reminder to trust in G-d’s protection and guidance. The prayer emphasizes peace (shalom) as the ultimate goal, reflecting the Jewish value of seeking harmony in all aspects of life.
FAQs About Tefilat Haderech
- Can I recite Tefilat Haderech for someone else?
Yes, you can recite the prayer on behalf of family members or friends. - What if I forget to say the prayer before my trip?
You can recite it at any point during the journey. - Are there different versions of the prayer?
Yes, there are slight variations between Ashkenazi and Sephardic traditions.
Conclusion
Tefilat Haderech is a powerful prayer that connects us to G-d’s protection and guidance. Whether you’re traveling near or far, this prayer offers comfort and reassurance.“For a full jewish holidays 2025, visit our jewish holidays 2025 blog.
